Geo. Sharp 'Emperor' aka 'Louis XIV' Unusual Coin Silver Serving Fork

Measuring 7 3/4" long and weighing 2.0 T. oz., this fork has rounded shoulders and three wide and lengthy tines, the outer two of which are splayed.

The form is uncommon and hence of uncertain function. It may be a spinach or toast/bread fork, or for another purpose yet. The proportions assure it is definitely original and not adapted from another piece as, for example, most potato forks are derived from dinner forks.

The maker was George Sharp, Philadelphia, as indicated by his "lion, S, lion" symbol imprinted on the backside, along with the retailer's name, "Robbins, Clark & Biddle," which firm operated 1876-78 according to Catherine Hollan in Philadelphia Silversmiths, before it was folded into "Bailey, Banks & Biddle."

Absent a standard mark for sterling, this must be coin silver, although it is late for that.

While unnamed, the pattern is similar to Gorham's Louis XIV and Knowles & Ladd's Emperor, and especially so to a third one yet by William Faber, also unnamed. All four of these designs are of the same period.

This has an Old English "K" or "R" monogram engraved on the front and backsides. The one on the reverse appears to be over a monogram removal.

In excellent condition, it is without visible wear. Pattern detail remains clear and well-defined. The tines are free of bends, nicks, or burrs, and retain pointed tips.