'I Love Liberty' Teaspoon, 1770

Probably the most famous of the picture backs spoons, the reverse of the bowl on this teaspoon depicts a dove departing an open cage with an olive branch in it's beak, surmounted by the words "I LOVE LIBERTY". It was almost certainly inspired by the trials of the political activist John Wilkes during the period 1765 - 1771. John Wilkes (1725 - 1798) was imprisoned on "libellous" and "treasonable" charges following his attacks in The North Briton newspaper against King George III and his government. His stance against the establishment's corruption, is considered as the major break through for the freedom of the press in the UK.

This is a fine example of this most highly sought after Georgian period picture back spoon with the motif and words all clear and legible. The two appropriate bottom-struck marks are present, although only the first letter "W" of the maker's mark is visible. The spoon bears "JD" initials to the terminal and is in fine condition (very slight kink to stem which can be felt rather than seen).