Wendt 'Arabesque' aka 'Monroe' Over Size Sterling Silver Pie Server

Exceptionally large, this solid silver pie server measures 10 1/4" long, has a blade that is 5" by 2 7/8" at the widest, and weighs 2.9 T. oz.

Marked "Ball, Black," "925" for sterling, and "Patent," the pattern is Arabesque, made by John Wendt, New York City, and issued in 1871. Arabesque is often (mis)identified as Monroe.

A Moorish design, Philadelphia's George Sharp produced a similar unnamed line. Whiting's version of Arabesque was introduced later in the 1870s.

This piece presents in a bold, dramatic, manner.

The blade is perfectly flat with, as noted, a large serving area. It has raised shoulders with double notches and a bulbous center where it joins the tubular handle.

The surface is extensively engraved in a leaf, vine and scroll period design. The center is inscribed with a long beaked and long tailed bird sitting in a ring. This evokes Wendt's yet-to-be introduced, die cut, Japanesque "Bird" line pattern.

The handle front is engraved with a feathered script "A.M.C." monogram set sideways in the open reserve.

In excellent condition, the only signs of use are light surface scratches consistent with age. Both pattern detail and the engraving remain sharp and well-defined, i.e. absent polishing wear, while the blade is free of bends, dents, or nicking. The finish is warm and even.