Redlich & Co. 'Rusticana' Antique Sterling 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 the famous firm of Shiebler who were noted for their 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 as it was 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 Redlich's trademark along with 'STERLING/ 441'. It measures just under 10 inches long and weighs 2.45 troy ounces, is monogrammed "M" on the back of the bowl and is in very good antique condition.

Endnote:

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.