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This is a rare George III silver mote spoon, crafted by the famous English silversmith Hester Bateman around 1775. The oval bowl features intricate geometric perforations in patterns of crosslets and scrolls. The long, slender handle tapers down to a sharp, spike-like point (diamond point).
Mote spoons were used primarily during the late 17th and 18th century as part of the tea-drinking ritual. The intricate, hand-pierced upper section allowed tea hosts to skim floating particles, loose leaves, and tea dust ("motes") directly out of a teacup without removing the liquid. The pointed spike end was used to clear the teapot's spout if it became clogged with loose tea particles.
Hester Bateman is highly celebrated among collectors as one of the most prominent female silversmiths of the Georgian era. Mote spoons made by her are particularly rare because her peak working years (from the 1770s to 1790) occurred just as caddy spoons were beginning to replace mote spoons in traditional British tea services.
The mote spoon measures approximately 5 inches long and weighs approximately 9 grams. Hester Bateman’s makers mark is clear on the back handle, next to an obscured Lion passant.
The item(s) are antique and sold as is/as found unless otherwise noted. Because they are old, they were used and will not look new or new-like. They likely show wear, fading, scratches, chips, cracks, past repair/restoration, original imperfections and/or damage from normal use. Significant issues are shown in photos. Examine photos carefully as they are part of the description. Imperfections were factored into pricing. No returns or refunds.
Freight shipping or local pickup must be arranged by the buyer. Buyers assume full responsibility for the pick up, packing and freight shipping of purchases or lots won at sale. Please contact a shipping company to make shipping arrangements. Contact me through to schedule pickup time and receive pick up address. Items not picked up within 20 calendar days of sale will be relisted on and the purchase price refunded.
