F. Smith "Hawthorne & Butterfly" Sterling Silver Preserve Spoon

This piece measures 7 1/2" long, weighs 1.2 T. oz., and has a 2 3/4" by 1 3/4" oblong bowl with a central groove in the interior and rounded corners.

It was made by Frank Smith, likely in the 1880s, and is stamped with his early "S flanked by scrolls" emblem, the word "Sterling," and the name of the retailer, "C.E. Wright" on the reverse.

A preserve or jelly spoon, it has a rounded end "Antique" handle with a plain back. It is engraved on the front with hawthorne branches and flowers, with a single butterfly hoovering above.

Aesthetic in manner, this is an unusual theme, but quite similar to a parallel and rarely found Durgin line.

The bowl shape is uncharacteristic for Smith, and in this instance is engraved in a multi-leaf with delicate flowers theme with wriggle work detailing.

Never monogrammed, this remains in flawless condition and shows a bright finish. This is slight softening of the engraving from polishing, but this does not raise to the level of excessive wear.