Modernist Hand-Wrought Sterling Silver Long-Handled Spoon
Flatware (Stirring/Mixing Spoon) · Unidentified Studio Silversmith (Attributed to Arts & Crafts or Modernist Tradition)
Pattern: Studio/Hand-Hammered Design (Non-commercial pattern)
Type
Flatware (Stirring/Mixing Spoon)
Maker
Unidentified Studio Silversmith (Attributed to Arts & Crafts or Modernist Tradition)
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) or possibly Coin Silver (.900)
Dimensions
Estimated length 10-12 inches; estimated weight 60-90 grams (approx. 2-3 troy oz).
Description
This elegant long-handled spoon exemplifies the Modernist approach to functional silver. It features a circular, slightly deep-set bowl and a slender, elongated square-profile stem. The lack of traditional ornamentation emphasizes the natural luster of the silver and the subtle evidence of the silversmith's hammer. It is a piece designed for both beauty and utility in a professional or home bar setting.
Key Features
Distinctive long-tapered handle, evidence of planishing (hammer marks), and a perfectly circular bowl geometry typical of studio pieces.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) or possibly Coin Silver (.900)
Finish & Decoration
Mirror-polished bowl with a light hand-hammered (planished) texture on the stem; minimal ornamentation consistent with Mid-Century Modern or late Arts & Crafts aesthetics.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely stamped 'STERLING' or '.925' on the underside of the stem near the bowl junction; may include a small pictorial maker's mark or 'HAND WROUGHT' stamp.
Construction Details
Hand-forged; the stem appears to be cold-forged from silver rod or heavy-gauge sheet, joined to a hand-raised or die-formed bowl through silver soldiering or integral forging.
Functional Features
Extra-long handle designed for stirring deep vessels or tall pitchers (iced tea, cocktails, or punch); narrow stem to reduce weight and displacement.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid silver square or rectangular-section stem; tapers slightly toward the terminal; smooth finish without a distinct decorative finial.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality hand-forging; the transition between the stem and bowl shows careful finishing and refinement characteristic of skilled bench work.
Authentication Indicators
Irregularities in the planished surface indicate hand-work rather than machine stamping; weight and flex of the handle are consistent with solid silver alloys rather than plated base metals.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely North American (USA or Mexico) or Scandinavian; studio craft production rather than industrial factory line.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (1945-1970) or late Arts & Crafts (1910-1930) based on the focus on form over ornament.
Age Estimate
Circa 1940-1965 based on the sleek silhouette and planished finish.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the mid-20th-century shift away from ornate Victorian patterns toward 'honest' design where the function of the object dictates its form.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good; visible light surface scratches (patina) consistent with age; possible slight bend in the thin stem; moderate tarnish in the image suggests it has been stored without anti-tarnish protection.
Value Estimate
$100.00 - $250.00 USD (Value increases significantly if a specific maker's mark like Allan Adler or Porter Blanchard is identified).
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth; polish with Wright's Silver Cream to restore luster; store in a Pacific Silvercloth roll to prevent tarnish; avoid bending the thin handle.
Similar Pieces
Allan Adler hand-wrought spoons, Georg Jensen 'Pyramid' iced tea spoons (which are more ornate), or Mexican 'Taxco' sterling barware.
Interesting Facts
Long-handled spoons became highly specialized in the early 20th century as highball and 'tall' cocktails became fashionable in the West. Pieces like this are often one-of-a-kind studio creations.