Gorham Wedding Large Sterling Serving Spoon

Wedding is a thoroughly engaging, figural pattern produced by Gorham in the 1860's. It features a pair of cast and applied doves flirtatiously kissing as they are perched, wings spread, atop a festooned shield handle end. This piece is a 9 1/8" long serving spoon, with a flowing "EIS" (?) monogram. The bowl is unusual in that it has a central groove and pointed end, rather than the more commonly found rounded end with a smooth base. The condition is excellent, with no signs of wear, and a fine finish. Marks are lion, anchor, G, Sterling, and Patent 1868.