Albert Coles Mayflower Coin Silver Ice Spoon

The form of this piece, essentially a ladle with the handle on the horizontal, paired with a pierced bowl, is characteristically thought of as a sugar sifter. However, at this scale, 8 1/4" long, and early date, circa 1850, this piece is more likely an ice spoon. The pattern is Albert Coles' Mayflower. The only mark on it is Stebbins & Co., which was a New York City retailer mid 19th century. There is an inscription on the reverse that reads, "A.E.C. from S.A.K." The bowl is shell form. While the overall piece is in excellent condition, with no visible polishing wear and a fine finish, the bowl shows an old, successful, repair. This is illustrated in the second set of images attached. Clearly there was a break where the bowl joins the handle. The remedy was to reinforce this area with silver strapping on the reverse. This approach provides an interesting insight into the 19th century emphasis on utility. The solution employed indicates that what is viewed today as an artifact was in its time was treated simply as an implement. Whereas today this piece would be "restored," the solution then was simply to "repair" it.