John Wendt 'Ribbon' Pattern Antique Sterling Silver Ice Cream Server, NYC, c. 1876

John Rudolph Wendt started working in Boston in the 1840's and later moved to New York. When this pattern was patented in 1875, he was in partnership with Charles Witteck who was assigned this design patent.

'Ribbon' is an unusual design of intricate decoration portraying ribbon going through a couple of clasps. The larger clasp is engraved with a 'D' initial and the back of the handle is engraved "1876". The blade has a gilt, matte finish and aesthetic movement engraved decoration.

Provenance: From the collection of Dale E. Bennett

Literature: "A History of Ice Cream and Its Servers (Part Two of Two)" in Silver Magazine, July/ August 2005, illustrated p. 29

The back of this lovely spade-shaped server is stamped 'STERLING/ PATENT' and by the retailer 'S. SMITH & CO.' Wendt silver is usually unmarked and identified by his unique patterns. It measures 8.5 inches long, weighs 2.05 troy ounces and is in very good antique condition with minor scratching to the gilt bowl.