John Wendt 'Tuscan' (Attributed) 950 Silver Large Salad Serving Tongs, c. 1860

This is a rare and very useful serving piece.  It was made by John Wendt from New York and retailed through the important firm of Ball, Black & Co.  The pattern is called 'Tuscan'.  Although it is a very simple pattern, it adds a lot of elegance and style to the piece. A single leaf decorates the top of the oval pattern with a stylized leaf at the base of the oval.  An anthemion leaf based decoration decorates the end. The incorporation of fork and spoon in the same instrument makes a great serving piece. Gilding covers the front and back of the spoon and fork and extends a third up the handle.

Ball, Black and Co. retailed some pieces of 950 silver for a short period in the late 1850's and early 1860's.  950 is slightly higher grade of silver than sterling (which is 925) and it is believed that they sold this quality silver as a marketing device to distinguish them from the competition.

This wonderful pair of tongs measure 10 inches long, weigh 5.35 troy ounces, have never been monogrammed and are in great condition.  They are not signed by the maker, however Wendt had an important manufacturing relationship with Ball, Black and Co at this time. They are stamped 950 and by the New York retailer Ball, Black & Co.

Our Price: SOLD

Item code: B320