McCarty & Hurlbert Bright Cut Sterling Silver Master Butter Knife

As a body, Philadelphia silver manufacturers of the second half of the 19th century exhibited great capacities in engraved design.

The quality of that work is exhibited on this 7 1/4" long, just over 1.0 T. oz., master butter knife stamped "Sterling" and "McCarty & Hurlbert" for the Philadelphia jeweler and manufacturer, 1876 successor to "Butler & McCarty," founded in 1849.

Both the "Old English" with reverse tipt end and the broad, notched, blade are extensively engraved in an Aesthetic style, leaf and floral, pattern.

The work exhibits "diamond cutting," which means surfaces are faceted and glisten like a gem. The brilliance is heightened by the satin matte background finish on the handle.

There is a small, feathered script "KC" monogram set sideways on the handle end. The backside of the piece is plain, save for the marks.

In excellent condition, the engraving remains crisp and well-defined and the overall finish is bright. The blade is free of bends, nicks, or burrs.