Set of 6 'I LOVE LIBERTY' Silver Teaspoons, c.1770

Probably the most famous of all picture backs silver spoons; the reverse side of these teaspoon bowls depicts a dove departing an open cage with an olive branch in it's beak, surmounted by the words "I LOVE LIBERTY".

The "I love liberty" motif 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 set of six Old English pattern silver teaspoons are fabulous examples of this most highly sought after Georgian period picture back spoon with the cage and bird motif and "I LOVE LIBERTY" words clearly visible.

All spoons are appropriately hallmarked with two bottom-struck marks including the lion passant and "PR" maker's mark for Philip Roker. The spoons bear initials to the reverse terminal in the form of a betrothal triangle - the upper "T" representing the happy couple's surname and the lower "I" and "M" their first names.

I Love Liberty teaspoons are quite rare and sought after, so it is remarkable that six such good spoons have stayed together with all remaining in excellent condition.