Egyptian Souvenir Sterling Silver Coffee Spoon Set with Camel Finials
Flatware - Demitasse/Coffee Spoons · Unknown Egyptian silversmiths; typically produced in centralized bazaars like Khan el-Khalili in Cairo or in Alexandria. These workshops often functioned as collectives rather than branded corporations.
Pattern: Traditional Egyptian Souvenir Camel Pattern; common production throughout the 20th century.
Type
Flatware - Demitasse/Coffee Spoons
Maker
Unknown Egyptian silversmiths; typically produced in centralized bazaars like Khan el-Khalili in Cairo or in Alexandria. These workshops often functioned as collectives rather than branded corporations.
Material
Likely Egyptian Sterling Silver (900 or 925 fineness). The shanks and bowls are silver, while the set is housed in a period presentation box of wood and velvet.
Dimensions
Each spoon is approximately 10-11 cm (4 inches) in length. Total silver weight for the set of six is estimated at 60-80 grams.
Description
This charming set of six silver coffee spoons is a classic example of Egyptian souvenir silver. Each spoon is crowned with a silhouetted camel finial, a motif that captured the imaginations of travelers during the mid-20th century. The elegant barley-twist stems transition into smooth, teardrop-shaped bowls, offering a balance of texture and sleekness. Set in their original black presentation case with white satin lining, these spoons serve as both functional flatware for espresso service and a nostalgic bridge to the 'Grand Tour' aesthetic of the Middle East.
Key Features
Camel finials; barley-twist shanks; original presentation box; Orientalist design language; small demitasse scale.
Material & Composition
Likely Egyptian Sterling Silver (900 or 925 fineness). The shanks and bowls are silver, while the set is housed in a period presentation box of wood and velvet.
Finish & Decoration
Features a cast figural camel finial atop a twisted wire (barley-twist) shank. The bowls are polished to a high mirror finish. The style is Orientalist/Souvenir characteristic of mid-century travel mementos.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Expected marks would be on the back of the bowls or shanks, likely including the Egyptian lotus flower logo (national mark), a fineness number (90 for 90% or 925), and an Arabic date letter.
Construction Details
Multi-part assembly: The figural camel finials are cast, the shanks are machine-twisted wire, and the bowls are die-struck, joined together with silver solder.
Functional Features
Ovoid bowls designed specifically for Turkish coffee or small espresso cups; presentation box includes distinct slots for each piece to prevent scratching.
Handle & Grip Details
Barley-twist shanks provide a textured grip; terminal ends feature openwork scrolling below a perched dromedary camel silhouette.
Craftsmanship Details
Commercial grade craftsmanship; the focus is on the iconic silhouette and thematic charm rather than intricate hand-chasing found in high-end hollowware.
Authentication Indicators
Solder points between the shank and bowl are visible and consistent with Egyptian workshop habits; hallmarks (though not visible in the photo) should follow the post-1946 Egyptian marking system.
Origin & Manufacturing
Egypt (Cairo or Alexandria). Crafted using traditional workshop methods combined with basic industrial components typical of Egyptian silversmithing districts.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (Post-Colonial Era, c. 1940-1960). Represents the boom in international travel and the fascination with North African motifs.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950s. The hinge style of the box and the specific assembly of the twisted wire are hallmarks of mid-century tourist trade items.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the 'Souvenir Culture' of the 20th century where silver was used to create portable, high-value mementos of exotic travel for the Western middle class.
Condition Notes
Excellent condition. Surface shows light tarnish consistent with age; bowls retain high luster; no visible bends or solder repairs; box exterior shows minor shelf wear.
Value Estimate
$75 - $150 USD for the complete set with box, depending on the specific silver content (925 vs 800/900).
Care & Maintenance
Hand wash only in warm soapy water; use a soft silver cloth like Cape Cod for the bowls; avoid over-polishing the cast camel to preserve the oxidation that provides detail.
Similar Pieces
Dutch 'Windmill' spoons (usually 830 silver), British 'Anointing' spoons, or Italian 'Peruzzi' style souvenir spoons with fleur-de-lis finials.
Interesting Facts
The camel finial spoon is one of the most recognizable silver souvenirs from Egypt, often purchased by British and American soldiers stationed in the Middle East during and after WWII.