Shiebler 'Princess' Pattern Antique Sterling Server, NYC, late 1870s

This unusual server is in the lovely Princess pattern which incorporates dense vine foliage around a central frond. The reverse is engraved with an 'MWV' monogram. The blade has both a bowl and a wide edge for slicing so it could certainly be multifunctional. Our best guess is this was originally for aspic or fried oysters. Beautiful foliate engraving decorates the bowl and tip of the blade.

This wonderful server is marked with Shiebler's 'GW' with an 'S' going through it along with 'STERLING/ PAT 74' and by the retailer 'NG WOOD & SON. It measures 9 inches long, weighs 1.90 troy ounces and is in very good antique condition with light wear to the gilding.