Walter S. Brower Antique Coin Silver Cake Knife, Albany, c. 1870

This is a stunning aesthetic movement example of this form. Cake knives are uncommon and this is an exceptionally pretty one. The shaped handle is engraved with a scene of ivy with a cartouche at the top engraved with a 'EJL' monogram.

The blade has a serrated top edge for cutting and a beveled bottom edge for serving. It exhibits exceptional engraving of exotic foliage and decorative design. Central to the blade is a wonderful butterfly.

Walter S. Brower was the son of S. Douglas Brower, who was at various times in partnership under different names with Green Hall and John Hewson in Albany, NY during the second quarter of the 19th century.  Around 1852, Walter took over this fine firm and carried on making very interesting pieces while continuing the use of earlier marks.

This rare serving knife is marked 'HH&B' and 'S.D. Brower & Son'. It measures 11 inches long, weighs 3.05 troy ounces and is in excellent antique condition.

Provenance: From the collection of Dale E. Bennett

Literature: Dale E. Bennett, "American Cake Knives - 1845-1885" in Silver Magazine,  September/October, 2007, pp. 28-33. Also pictured on the cover.