Tiffany & Co. 'Japanese' Pattern Antique Sterling Silver Cake Knife, 1871-75

The 'Japanese' pattern was first patented in the 1871 and shows American's growing interest in Japan and the exotic. It is a gorgeous pattern with a bird resting on a branch among flowers and other branches on a stippled background. The reverse of the handle is also decorated with Japanesque elements around a lovely 'PK' monogram engraved in an artistic block style.

The blade is stunning with two types of gold gilding separated by a diagonal zigzag sash of bright-cut engraving bordered by vermicelli decoration. The back of the blade is also gilded in two tones, the rose and gold colors separated along a diagonal.

This rare sterling silver server is stamped 'TIFFANY & CO/ STERLING/ PAT. 1871/ m'. This particular 'm' mark was used from 1869-1875 and because this pattern was patented in 1871, one can specifically date the piece from 1871-75. It measures 11.25 inches long, weighs 5.20 troy ounces and is in very good/ excellent antique condition with light wear to the gilding and light surface scratches to the blade.