Whiting (attr) Antique Sterling Silver Water Lily Sauce Ladle, NYC, NY, c. 1870s

The incorporation of aesthetic movement design in this ladle is quite striking. It is constructed from multiple pieces. The decorative top of the handle has three spreading water lily leaves with three wires as stems. The mid-section of the curved handle is also made with three wires. The bottom section consists of three wires spreading out to secure the wonderful bowl. The water lily-formed bowl is gilt on the inside and parcel-gilt on the outside of the blossoming flower. The matte finish adds a lustrous surface.

This very rare, antique ladle is marked 'STERLING/ 10'. It measures just over 7.5 inches long, weighs 1.15 troy ounces, has never been monogrammed, and is in excellent antique condition.