Bateman Sterling Silver Basting Spoon with Crosley Runcible Spoon

While a matching pair, these two large serving pieces come from different sources, with slightly different dates.

Both are marked for London, England, and sterling silver. The earlier one is an 11 3/8" long, 2.9 T. oz., platter, aka stuffing or basting, spoon. It is marked "PB/AB" for Peter and Ann Bateman, and with a date letter for 1798-99.

The second piece is an 11" long, also 2.9 T. oz., runcible spoon (which is actually a fork with a spoon bowl) marked "RC" for Richard Crossley, with an 1804 date letter.

Essentially identical in design, the Crossley piece was clearly commissioned to match the Bateman one.

Each piece has an Old English handle with a downturned end and tipt backside. The platter spoon has a thumb drop on the bowl heel, while the runcible spoon has a plain drop.

Both sides of the handles have diamond cut margins with wriggle work detailing and cascading engraved leaf motifs on the handle fronts.

Each piece also has a front side reserve surrounded by the same diamond cut and wriggle work design as appears on the margins. These are engraved with a crest that portrays a tusked boar in full stride.

In excellent condition, these are without flaws such as dents, bends, or burrs, and they show bright, warm, finishes. The engraving remains sharp and well-defined.