George III Sterling Silver Fiddle Pattern Caddy Spoon by Josiah Snatt
Flatware (Caddy Spoon) · Josiah Snatt, a renowned specialist small-work silversmith based in London. He was active from the late 18th century into the early 19th century and is particularly noted for his caddy spoons and wine labels.
Pattern: Fiddle Pattern, London. This pattern became the dominant style in English flatware during the 19th century, characterized by its rectangular shoulders and spatulate terminal.
Type
Flatware (Caddy Spoon)
Maker
Josiah Snatt, a renowned specialist small-work silversmith based in London. He was active from the late 18th century into the early 19th century and is particularly noted for his caddy spoons and wine labels.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The alloy contains 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% copper for strength, as indicated by the Lion Passant hallmark.
Dimensions
Estimated length of 8-10 cm (3.5-4 inches) with a broad, shovel-style bowl. Approximate weight of 12-18 grams.
Description
A refined example of Georgian utility, this Josiah Snatt caddy spoon features the classic Fiddle pattern design. The spoon's broad, shallow bowl is perfectly proportioned for the expensive loose teas of the early 19th century. Its hallmarks are exceptionally crisp, showing the maker's pride and the rigors of the London assay system.
Key Features
Distinctive 'JS' maker's mark, the shovel-shaped bowl, and the clear 'R' date letter for 1812. The presence of the Duty Mark (King's Head) confirms tax was paid to the crown.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The alloy contains 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% copper for strength, as indicated by the Lion Passant hallmark.
Finish & Decoration
Polished mirror finish with no secondary surface decoration (plain style). The design relies on the clean lines of the Georgian Neoclassical period. It features the characteristic 'shoulders' on the stem typical of the Fiddle pattern.
Hallmarks & Stamps
A full set of London Georgian hallmarks: 'JS' (Maker's mark for Josiah Snatt); Lion Passant (Sterling purity); Leopard's Head Crowned (London Assay Office); King George III Duty Mark (Sovereign's head profile); Date Letter 'R' (indicative of 1812).
Construction Details
Hand-forged from a single ingot of silver. The bowl was shaped using planishing hammers over a stake, and the hallmarks were hand-struck into the reverse of the handle terminal.
Functional Features
Short handle and oversized broad bowl designed to fit inside a tea caddy (wooden box) and scoop loose tea leaves accurately into a teapot.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid sterling silver Fiddle pattern handle with a flattened terminal. The ergonomic scoop shape allows for easy gripping between thumb and forefinger.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality hand-work. The transition from the handle to the bowl is seamless, and the gauge of the silver is heavy enough to prevent bending, characteristic of London-made small-work.
Authentication Indicators
Hallmark sequence is technically correct for 1812 London; 'JS' mark matches known punches for Josiah Snatt; wear patterns on the bowl edges are consistent with 200+ years of use.
Origin & Manufacturing
London, England. Produced in a traditional silversmithing workshop adhering to the strict regulations of the Goldsmiths' Hall.
Era & Period
George III / Regency Period (c. 1812). This was the height of the tea-drinking culture in Britain, where silver accessories for tea service were symbols of high social status.
Age Estimate
Dated specifically to 1812 based on the 'R' date letter and the George III duty mark.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the 'Tea Mania' of the 19th century. Tea was a luxury good kept under lock and key; the silver spoon used to measure it was a piece of 'functional jewelry' for the mistress of the house.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The hallmarks are exceptionally clear and well-preserved. There is minor surface scratching consistent with age ('butler's wear') and some light tarnish.
Value Estimate
$150 - $250 USD, depending on the specific desirability of the bowl shape and the clarity of the maker's mark to specialized collectors.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver cream (e.g., Wright's) only when necessary. Avoid silver dips which strip the natural patina. Store in a tarnish-resistant cloth or acid-free paper.
Similar Pieces
Old English pattern caddy spoons (no shoulders on stem) or Shell-bowl spoons. Collectors often distinguish Snatt's work by his superior bowl shapes compared to mass-produced Victorian versions.
Interesting Facts
Caddy spoons were a relatively late addition to the tea service, appearing around 1770. Previously, the lid of the tea caddy was used to measure tea. Josiah Snatt is a highly collected specialist for these specific small items.
Notes
Spoon. Broad bowl