Taylor & Perry 1833 "Grape" Sterling Silver Knife, Fork, Spoon

This group of three pieces comprise a matched set, for either youth or traveling.

Sterling silver, they were made in Birmingham, England in 1833-34 by the firm of Taylor & Perry. The spoon is stamped with five identifying hallmarks, with the fork and knife having confirming partial marks.

The pattern is a robust grape leaf and fruit cluster that appears on the front and backsides of all three pieces. The spoon also has an elaborate, raised shell, motif on the heel reverse.

The solid silver, large bowl, spoon measures 6 3/8" long and weighs approximately 1.2 T. oz. The 6 5/8" long knife has a solid silver blade and hollow handle, and weighs .8 T. oz. Lastly, the 5 1/4" long, .5 T. oz., fork has a solid silver shank and tines and hollow handle.

In very good condition, these show little evidence of use, noting though that the spoon shows some dimpling and a bit of unevenness. Apart from this, it remains well-shaped and is free of tip wear.

The hollow handles are without splits or dents and the joins with the shank of the fork and the blade of the knife remain snug. The tines are straight, even, and pointed, while the blade is without bends or wear, presenting only light surface scratches.