John Wendt 'Moresque' Pattern Antique Sterling Silver Pie Server, NYC, c. 1870s

John Wendt and Bernhard Beiderhase made some wonderful silver and this serving piece is no exception.  'Moresque' is one of the nicer American exotic patterns and one of our favorites.  It is a lovely ornamented design on both the front and back of the handle with the back having a blank on the back engraved 'HPF'.

This blade is also stunning with its use of seven unusual horizontal raised rows dividing the blade. Bright cut and ornamental engraving decorate the other areas against a gilt, matte finish background.

The 'Moresque' pattern was patented October 18, 1873 by Bernhard D. Beiderhase, a silversmith associated with Wendt's shop and who would ultimately be his successor after Wendt's retirement in the early 1870s (precise date unknown).

This exceptional server is marked on the back 'PATENT/ STERLING' and by the San Francisco retailer BRAVERMAN & LEVY'. It measures 10.5 inches long, weighs 3.20 troy ounces and is in excellent antique condition.