George IV Coronation Faux Filigree Caddy Spoon, c.1820

We are pleased to be offering probably the most sought after of all silver tea caddy spoons - the King George IV Coronation faux filigree spoon.

This extremely rare spoon, with just two known examples, is simply superb. It was made by Cocks & Bettridge of Birmingham to simulate filigree and although still delicate is more durable than actual filigree. The exquisite bowl features two perching doves holding an olive branch and supported by the Prince of Wales's feathers and the Royal Crown. The spoon was made to commemorate the coronation of King George IV in 1821.

The handle incorporates a solid shield that is engraved with original script initials and is used on the reverse side as the only place to stamp the C&B maker's mark. This wonderful spoon remains in fabulous condition.

King George IV became Prince of Wales a few days after his birth in 1762 and acted as prince regent from 1811 during the mental illness of his father King George III. He became king on the death of his father in January 1820 with his coronation finally taking place on July 19th,1821 after the initial date of August 1st, 1820 was postponed due to parliamentary procedings relating to the king's estranged wife Caroline of Brunswick. Due to the extravagant tastes of King George IV, the coronation ceremony was the most lavish ever and participants had to dress in Tudor and Stuart period costumes. We recently sold an earl's coronet worn at the coronation - see photo/link below. 

Provenance: This spoon was formerly in the collection of Captain John Norie, the founder member of The Society of Caddy Spoon Collectors and owner of the most important collection of caddy spoons that has come to market to date. the collection was sold at Woolley & Wallis, Salisbury over two sales in 2004, with this spoon being the final lot of the day on April 20th (lot 253) and sold for £5428. It was featured on the front of the catalogue and was the highest selling lot of the sale.