Gorham No. 441 Sterling Silver Pap Spoon

This 6 1/8" long, sterling silver spoon is numbered 441. It is one of a series produced by Gorham and illustrated in that company's 1898 catalog. The line began before that date, however, as this piece bears an 1888 date symbol on the reverse. These spoons all share several common characteristics. One is the density and intricacy of their designs, all set in high relief. A second feature is the size, slightly larger than a teaspoon, and heavy weight, 1.2 T. oz. in this instance. This size is identified as a pap spoon in the catalog. Thirdly, the bowls all have swirling detail in the interiors, and are finished in a gold wash. The last aspect common to this series is the overall measure of refinement and finish exercised on the line. This example has a "JHL" script monogram on the reverse, and is in pristine condition.