Worshipful Company of Gardeners Centenary Commemorative Gilt Sterling Silver Teaspoon Set
Flatware (Teaspoons) · Toyoe, Kenrick & Spencer (TKS), a notable London-based firm specializing in livery company commissions, medals, and high-quality commemorative regalia.
Pattern: Custom Livery Commission; teardrop handle with raised armorial crest and commemorative inscription.
Type
Flatware (Teaspoons)
Maker
Toyoe, Kenrick & Spencer (TKS), a notable London-based firm specializing in livery company commissions, medals, and high-quality commemorative regalia.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity) with a heavy gold electroplate finish (Vermeil).
Dimensions
Standard teaspoon length approximately 11-12 cm (4.5 inches); estimated weight per spoon is approximately 15-18 grams.
Description
A refined set of silver-gilt teaspoons specifically commissioned for the Worshipful Company of Gardeners. Each piece serves as a physical record of one of London's oldest trade guilds, featuring the iconic armorial bearings and high-quality vermeil finish. These sets were typically gifted to members or used during formal banquets at the Mansion House or Livery Halls.
Key Features
Heavy gold wash, the specific 'Basket of Flowers' crest of the Gardeners' Company, and the original fitted forest green presentation case.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity) with a heavy gold electroplate finish (Vermeil).
Finish & Decoration
High-polish parcel-gilt finish with raised (die-struck) armorial crest of the Worshipful Company of Gardeners on the handle; includes an engraved or stamped commemorative date and company name.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Expected marks include the Lion Passant (English Sterling), Leopard's Head (London Assay Office), Maker's Mark 'TK&S', and a date letter 'j' or 'k' corresponding to the early 1890s-1900s or late 1960s/70s centenary cycles.
Construction Details
Die-struck from heavy gauge sheet silver; polished and then gilded via electrolysis. Hand-finished edges and stamped with precision dies for the heraldic crest.
Functional Features
Standard bowl for stirring; tapering handle for delicate grip. Housed in a custom fitted velvet-lined presentation case to prevent friction wear.
Handle & Grip Details
Flat teardrop shape handle, solid sterling silver. Features a raised basket of flowers/foliage (The Gardeners' Crest) and the motto 'In the sweat of thy brow shalt thou eat thy bread'.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality die-work on the handles showing crisp detail in the heraldic crest, which is the primary hallmark of a specialist commission maker like Toyoe, Kenrick & Spencer.
Authentication Indicators
Consistency of the 'TKS' maker's mark with City of London Livery commissions; hallmarks usually found on the back of the neck or stem.
Origin & Manufacturing
London, England; manufactured specifically for the City of London Livery Company market by specialist silversmiths.
Era & Period
Late Victorian or Mid-Century Modern; commemorative of the 1891-1905 or 1960s/70s revitalization periods of the City of London Livery Companies.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960–1990 based on current preservation and case style, though the design mimics Victorian traditions.
Cultural Significance
Represents the continuity of the London Livery Companies, which transitioned from trade regulators to charitable and social institutions that maintain the traditions of the City of London.
Condition Notes
Very Good. Visible tarnish on the lower handles of several spoons which suggests silver-sulfide formation reacting through the gold plate (oxidation). No signs of bowl wear or thinning.
Value Estimate
£150 - £250 ($190 - $320 USD) for the complete cased set, primarily driven by the 'Livery' collector market and the silver content.
Care & Maintenance
Clean only with mild soapy water and a soft cloth; avoid abrasive silver polishes which will strip the thin gold 'vermeil' layer and reveal the silver underneath.
Similar Pieces
Commemorative spoons by Mappin & Webb or Garrard. Competitor versions often lack the specific livery crest, featuring instead simple floral motifs.
Interesting Facts
The Worshipful Company of Gardeners was granted its Charter by King James I in 1605, though their history as a guild dates back to at least 1345.