John Wendt 'Ribbon' Pattern Antique Sterling Silver Ice Tongs, NYC, c. 1875

These rare ice tongs are stunning.

'Ribbon' is an unusual design of intricate decoration portraying ribbon going through a couple of clasps. The elbow is engraved with the figure of a rooster standing on a bundle of wheat above a 'W' initial. The fork and spoon blades are exceptional. The have a gilt, matte finish and are pierced and hand-engraved.

John Rudolph Wendt, a German immigrant, started working as a silversmith in Boston in the 1840's, moved to New York in 1860 and became the principal silversmith to Ball, Black & Co., the finest jewelers in New York City before Tiffany & Co. took that mantle in the 1870s. When this pattern was patented in 1875, he was in partnership with Charles Witteck who was assigned this design patent.

Provenance: From the collection of Dale E. Bennett

The back of this lovely serving scoop is stamped 'STERLING/ PATENT' and by the retailers 'CANFIELD BROS'. Wendt silver is usually unmarked and identified by his unique patterns. They measure 6.75 inches long, weigh 1.90 troy ounces and are in excellent antique condition.