Large Serving Spoon

[neurorocker]

Alhtough the marks on this piece loosely resemble Scottish marks (lion passant x2, thistle x2 or maybe a tulip) and makers mark C.G, I believe they are probably American. Anyone know this maker?



(admin photo edit - images too large - link only - see Posting Requirements )

[dognose]

Hi Neurorocker,

It would be good to have a second opinion, but I'm fairly certain that is the mark of Christian Grothe of Montreal.

Hopefully someone else will confirm/deny.

Trev.

[neurorocker]

Hi Trev,

Thank you so much for weighing in on this very heavy gauge table spoon. I would not have guessed Canadian, but I definitely agree. I looked at the marks on a previous thread about this Canadian smith (viewtopic.php?f=5ur7&t=24392) and I have to concur that the marks are quite similar, especially the use of dual lions passant. As well as the C.G cartouche which is identical. The right vertical wall of the cartouche has a slight inward bend and this is an exact match to the original poster's C.G mark--probably even the same die. It is interesting that all the other marks are different, but as is mentioned on the earlier thread, this smith had a very long career. The only other characteristic worth mentioning on this piece for future reference is that the reverse is not completely proportionate and still has some subtle signs of hammer strikes. Definitely a hand made piece. Thanks again, Trev.