Stock No. 3080	George II shell-back silver marrow spoon
	Very fine and quite rare George II sterling silver shell-back marrow spoon. The bowl is the same shape as that of a table spoon and has a very decorative, simple, shell on the back which is typical of the shells of that period. The full hallmarks are stamped at the base of the stem which is then fashioned into a scoop for the rest of its length so that marrow could be removed from beef and other bones. On the drop joining the stem to the bowl are engraved the initials of the contemporary owner or owners, S over A.S. Maker :- Richard Peppin

Condition :-Extremely good with a pleasing patina and clear hallmarks. The shell on the back is lightly mellowed but is still in very good and extremely acceptable condition
Hallmarked :- London 1753
Size :- 9.3 inches (23.6 cm) long
Weight :- 1.78 ozt (55.4 g)
Shell-back tablespoons are much more rare than shell-back teaspoons and this applies even more to marrow spoons. Examples of marrow spoons can be found as early as the 1690s and were an integral part of many travelling canteens. By the end of the 18th century, marrow spoons had become quite rare and were rapidly being superseded by marrow scoops. To-day, 18th century marrow spoons are very collectable but also lend themselves very easily to various uses on the dining table. They are perfect for "osso bucco".

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