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

Ice spoons are very rare, and this is a stunning example.

'Ribbon' is an unusual design of intricate decoration portraying a ribbon going through a couple of clasps. The front clasps have never been engraved and the back of the handle is engraved 'AWP'.  The bowl is stunning with its shimmering gilt matte finish. The piercing is also exceptional. 

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.

Provenance: From the collection of Dale E. Bennett

Literature: "Ice Spoons - Where Else But in America?" in Silver Magazine, September/ October 2011, illustrated p. 20.

The back of this rare antique server is stamped 'STERLING/ PATENT' and by the retailer 'M.S. SMITH & CO.' Wendt silver is usually unmarked and identified by his unique patterns. It measures 9.25 inches long, weighs 2.45 troy ounces and is in excellent antique condition.