James I Silver St Bartholomew Apostle Spoon, London 1618

This is a fabulous example of a King James I period silver apostle spoon.

The spoon has the diagnostic fig-shaped bowl and hexagonal stem, plus a gilt, cast apostle figure to the terminal that is wearing a nimbus with the sacred dove motif. The figure is holding a flaying knife that is emblematic of St Bartholomew.

The spoon was made by the specialist spoonmaker William Friend in 1618. Friend was apprenticed to John Jermyn and gained his freedom in 1605. In turn, he had apprentices of his own including the latter successful spoonmakers Thomas Brothwell and Richard Crosse.

This early 17th century spoon is in fine condition with a good unworn bowl. The hallmarks to the reverse stem are clearly legible, whilst the bowl mark is a little rubbed. Overall a good-looking apostle spoon in great condition.