M W Shaw, Galveston, Texas Retailer, American Antique Sterling 'Square Twist' Pattern Ice Cream Server, c. 1880s

This beautiful sterling flat server is in the uncommon Square Twist pattern and features, a squared, long handle that is engraved with a 'CRS' monogram and a spiral twist bottom half. The shaped blade is beautifully engraved with a large flower in bloom.

In the 1850s, Michael W. Shaw opened the first jewelry store in Texas in Galveston. (See here, here and here.) We don't remember ever having a piece of silver from Galveston, Texas before. In any event, all 19th century Texas related decorative arts are quite rare. It was most likely made by Whiting, although the St. Louis maker, F. A. Durgin, cannot be ruled out.

Provenance: Collection of Dale E. Bennett.

Marked 'STERLING/ 158', the server does not have a maker's mark but is signed by the retailer, Texas retailer 'MW SHAW/ GALVESTON.' It measures 10.75 inches long, weighs 4.50 troy ounces and is in very good antique condition with light surface scratches from normal use.