Redlich & Co. Large 'Rusticana' Antique Sterling Silver Berry Spoon, NYC, c. 1895

A wonderful and whimsical example of naturalistic American silver, this berry spoon features an oak leaf bowl with a 'branch' handle that has applied oak leaves and cast acorns.

According to the Jewelers' Circular of November 11, 1891:

No more artistic pattern in fancy coffee spoons has been put on the market this fall than “The Rusticana,” of Ludwig, Redlich & Co.... (1)

This is a rare berry spoon.

Adolph Ludwig and A. Alec Redlich started the company Ludwig Redlich & Co. in 1890. Ludwig previously worked as a designer for George Shiebler's famous firm, which was noted for its unique designs and stunning silver. Five years later, Ludwig sold his interest in the company, which then became Redlich & Co. (2) This is likely a Ludwig design made by Shiebler, Ludwig & Redlich and then by Redlich after Ludwig's departure.

The 'Rusticana' pattern by Ludwig, Redlich & Co. - Ad from the Jewelers' Circular

This wonderful spoon is marked underneath with Ludwig & Redlich's trademark and 'STERLING/ 441'. It measures just under 10 inches long, weighs 2.05 troy ounces, has never been monogrammed, and is in excellent antique condition.

Endnotes:

1. Jewelers' Circular and Horological Review, (New York: Jewelers' Circular Pub. Co, ), Nov. 11, 1891, P. 41.
2. Dorothy T. Rainwater, Encyclopedia Of American Silver Manufacturers, 4th edition (Atglen: Schiffer Publishing, Ltd., 1998), p. 260.