T.C. Garrett, Philadelphia, Shell Bowl Coin Silver Preserve Spoon

This 7" long, .9 T. oz., solid silver preserve spoon has a downturned, rounded end, handle with a plain, Tipt, backside. The front is extensively bright cut engraved and engine turned in a manner that is strongly suggestive of mid 19th century Philadelphia design.

Indeed, it is marked "T.C. Garrett," who was an established jeweler and merchant in that city.

In her biographical entry about him in Philadelphia Silversmiths, Catherine Hollan illustrates his mark alongside Watts & Harper's "W&H," noting "he also sold other Watts pattern pieces . . . ." Watts could certainly have been the maker of this piece as it resembles much of his product of this time.

Whoever the maker, it is an especially choice example of period Philadelphia coin silver, with the the bright cut work and engine turning rendered with particularly fine precision.

There is a shield reserve which is engraved in a fine, feathered script, monogram that may be "ISR."

The bowl is shell form, with narrow ribbing and a scalloped edge.

As suggested, this is in outstanding estate condition, absent any polishing wear, having a bright finish, and without any dents, bends, or tears in the bowl.