Tiffany 'Japanese' Asian-Inspired Sterling Silver Fish Slice or Knife

A pattern with a history rooted in the Aesthetic movement, Tiffany's original Japanese (to be distinguished from later produced and renamed Audubon) was the first of numerous American flatware patterns to be issued in a multi-motif bird motif, as indicated by William Hood writing in Tiffany Silver Flatware.

Drawing upon research provided by Gorham scholar Sam Hough, Hood further notes, "In this same period [1869] Tiffany and Gorham started to conceive of producing their own Japanese-inspired silverware. Tiffany's Japanese pattern was patented in April of 1871, just ahead of the introduction of Gorham's Japanese in June."

Tiffany offered a number of fish serving pieces in Japanese, of which this slice or knife is one.

It measures 11 1/4" long and weighs a substantial 4.56 T. oz.

The otherwise flat blade has a raised and scalloped upper edge and a convex groove in the center. The end is arced and comes to a point, while the lower edge is slightly beveled.

The entire blade surface is finished in a bright gold wash front and back sides.

The bird portraiture on the handle obverse is a flycatcher "perched on a branch amidst flowers and foliage. Below this there is reeding which extends to the base of the stem, ending with a stylized flower" (Hood).

"The terminal reverse depicts various flowers and foliage partially encircling a space left open for monogramming," which in this instance is a flowing, line script "HRC."

The ground behind the bird and foliage is finished in a satin matte, creating a shimmering effect to the surface.

An early production piece, this is marked "Tiffany & Co.," "Sterling," "Pat. 1871," and with an "M," used 1873-91.

It is in superb condition. Pattern detail is precise and clear, free of any polishing wear. The blade is without bends, nicks, or scratches, and the overall finish is lustrous.