Wendt "Union" Sterling Silver Right Angle Master Butter Knife
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$78.00
This lengthy at 7 5/8" and robust at approximately 1.5 T. oz., solid silver master butter knife was made by New York's John Wendt, whose characteristic "Patent 925" (for sterling) and "Bailey & Co.," for the Philadelphia retailer appear on the blade.
The pattern is "Union," and is quite similar to "Gibney," designed by F.H. Gibney, later Whiting, with both it and "Union" issued in 1862.
The handle has a central leaf rosette and leaf tipped, oval end, all elements that are very much of its period. These details echo Greek Revival sensibilities popular at the time, but the pattern is fundamentally American vernacular.
The broad blade is set at a right angle to the handle and has a scalloped upper edge.
Never monogrammed, it remains in excellent condition. Overall detail remains well-defined and free of polishing wear, while the finish shows a rich patina. The blade is free of bends, cracks, or burrs, but does show surface scratches consistent with use.
