Victorian Dutch Pierced Funeral "Weigher of Souls" Monkey Spoon 934 Silver c1888

Description: VICTORIAN ERA DUTCH .934 SILVER PIERCED STRAINER (HOLLAND, NETHERLANDS EXPORT) FUNERAL MONKEY SPOON – circa 1888DESCRIPTION: Monkey spoon with chased pierced bowl depicting windmill structure and man or farmer with sack on footpath headed for windmill. Urn shield on top with the “weigher of souls” funeral finial. “The term "monkey spoon" has been applied to a very unusual folk art style ladle/spoon that was created to celebrate weddings and to honor those who died (funerals). We currently believe that these spoons were primarily used by the Dutch settlers of the New York/Hudson river area and in the Netherlands (Holland). The primary use of these spoons was in the serving of a popular rum and raisin toddy. The Dutch have been known to be heavy drinkers and the American Dutch dominated the rum trade between New York, the Caribbean Islands and Europe. The pierced bowl ladles were for the serving of the raisins without the rum.” 1. “These spoons have a finial that we call the 'weigher of souls': A Roman Catholic concept wherein the Angel Michael is presumed to be at the deathbed and acts to protect the soul from Satan. He is charged with assisting the dying and in their private judgments and eventually presenting them to God.” 1.CONDITION: Vintage, used and has some dents but in good shape for it’s age. Monkey spoons are handmade items. Please look at the pictures and contact me if you have any questions. Pictures are a very important part of the description and condition. I try my best to accurately describe each item and to point out any flaws or damage. If you purchase an item and it seems that I missed or misrepresented something, please let me know before leaving negative feedback. It is very important to me that buyers are pleased with their purchases from me.LENGTH: Approximately 4.75 inches longWEIGHT: 0.75ounce or 20 gramsHALLMARK: Dutch Lion Rampant Mark with Key Mark, used 1853 – 1953. Key mark is stamped intruding upon the Lion Rampant Mark to indicate the object was designated for export. Lion Rampant mark is silver purity or minimum standard =.934. The calligraphic “D” in circle next to Lion Rampant Mark with Key Mark dates the piece made in 1888. The Maker’s mark on the other side of the Lion Rampant mark is unclear and has not been identified. There is one other stamped mark on the side of the spoon that is also unidentified.REFERENCES: 1. Spoonplanet and 2. Dutch Hallmarks - Encyclopedia of Silver Marks, Hallmarks & Makers' Marks Thank you for looking! Multiple item savings: If you wish to purchase more than one item from my store, place the item(s) in your cart and choose to purchase. In the final screen prior to purchasing, you will be provided a total amount due and the option to send me a request for an invoice for combined shipping. Choose to request an invoice and I will combine the shipping costs and send you an invoice from which you can pay.

Price: 170 USD

Location: Manassas, Virginia

End Time: 2025-01-24T17:39:26.000Z

Shipping Cost: N/A USD