Thomas Fletcher (Phila.) Coin Silver Sauce Ladle

This 6" long, coin silver cream or sauce ladle was made by Thomas Fletcher, likely early in his working time, circa 1815. Fletcher had roots in New England, but spent most of his adult life in Philadelphia. He is the Fletcher of that city's well-regarded firm of Fletcher and Gardiner. This piece is quite simple, nearly coffin end in style, with its flat handle with clipped corners. It has a script "T" monogram. The condition is good, but there are signs of wear. The bowl is well-shaped and free of dents, but the interior is slightly pebbly. There is a flat crimp on the handle that shows lower left of the maker's mark (and is visible on the front as well); it appears the piece was "pinched" at some time. The "T.F" stamp is a bit rubbed, but still quite distinguishable.