George Washington Medallion Coin Silver Soup Ladle by Newell Harding & Co., Boston, c. 1870

George Washington medallion is the rarest of all medallions. As 'father' of our country, he became an increasingly popular icon in the years preceding the centennial celebrations of 1876.   On silver flatware, his image is quite rare.

This large soup ladle by Newell Harding & Co. of Boston is an outstanding example. It features an applied cast medallion of Washington's bust (based on the sculpture by Jean-Antoine Houdin), a gold washed bowl and classically inspired bright cut engraving on the handle and bowl. 

Soup, and the serving of soup, were important parts of the dining rituals of the 19th century where this ladle played a central role. It would have dazzled guests in the gas lighting of the period. 

Weighing an impressive 7.65 troy ounces, this was an expensive addition to any flatware service.  Silver was sold by weight, and this ladle would have cost 2 or 3 weeks wages for a craftsman of the period.  (Thanks to D. Albert Soeffing).

In outstanding condition (in fact the medallion is brilliant, showing details and modeling significantly better than any quarter - even though based on the same sculpture),  this ladle features the original gilt bowl, is monogrammed "StM" in an artistic block style under the medallion, and measures 13.5 inches long.  It is marked 'N. Harding & Co.' and 'Pure Coin.'

Our Price: SOLD

Item code: K04