Tiffany & Co Antique Sterling Silver Figural Punch Ladle, New York City, 1870-75

This is a spectacular ladle by one of the greatest American silver manufacturers executed with a nautical theme.

The long, shaped handle is in the shape of a ship's mast with turned rope traveling up the side. An exceptionally cast and detailed figure of a sailor is attached at the top. The sailor clutches the mast with one arm while extending his other arm holding a hat as if he is waving to someone or another ship.  A ribbon-formed flag blows in the wind and envelopes the figure.

At the bottom of the mast is a small platform. Larger depictions of silver rope hang from underneath the platform and wrap around the back of the bowl and attach to the front. The double-lipped bowl is whimsically navette or boat-shaped and has an applied decorative band around its edge

This rare ladle is stamped underneath the platform 'TIFFANY & CO/ STERLING/ UNION SQUARE/ 106/ M/ 2037. It measures 15 inches long, weighs 10 troy ounces and is in good antique condition. This stunning ladle is an exceptional example of Tiffany figural silver. A bend in the handle has been well restored.