James S. Vancourt Antique Coin Silver ‘Jenny Lind’ Fish Slice, NYC, c. 1853

This is a wonderful fish serving slice in the ‘Jenny Lind’ pattern. The handle has classical ornamentation including leaves and strapwork. The blade is lovely. We’re always fascinated with the artistry exhibited with the engraving of these serving instruments. Large scrolls decorate the pierced blade with a central romanticized scene of a man in his boat fishing on a lake next to a large estate. The reverse of the blade has engraved floral decoration around the piercings.

This early server is marked with Vancourt's trademark overstriking the mark of Coles and Vancourt trademark. According to The Encyclopedia of American Silver Manufacturers, “The fact that Albert Coles was skilled at producing hollow handles knives, coupled with the similarity of the style of the pseudo hallmarks used by Vancourt and Coles, suggests that Vancourt may have been apprenticed to or employed by Coles before establishing his own business.” (1) The server measures 12.25 inches long and is in very good antique condition with a monogram removal to both sides of the handle.

Provenance: From the collection of Dale E. Bennett.

Endnote:

1.  Dorothy T. Rainwater, Encyclopedia Of American Silver Manufacturers, 4th edition (Atglen: Schiffer Publishing, Ltd., 1998), p. 349.