Faber (Philadelphia) Engraved Sterling Serving Spoon

This sterling silver spoon bears the mark "W[illiam]. Faber & Sons," for a well-known and well-regarded Philadelphia silver firm whose dates cover roughly the middle third of the 19th century. It is an 8 1/2" long, 1.8 T. oz. serving spoon. The form seems to be indigenous to Philadelphia as it shows up only on pieces from that area. It has a shallow, actually flat with a slight scoop to it, bowl that has a scalloped upper edge. It may be an ice cream server. The handle and interior of the bowl have highly detailed engraving set against a slightly matte finish, which is more pronounced in the pale gold washed bowl. The engraving incorporates flowers, ferns, and grasses, as well as some details that reflect Aesthetic design, suggesting an 1870's date. The backside is plain save for the Faber mark and the word "Sterling." There is an elaborate Old English "W" monogram on the front. The condition is mint. There are no signs of wear whatsoever.