Silver knife and fork with ivory handles in original red case with silk lining.

Images(2)

Maker's and date marks on the back of the knife blade.

Christening Set

Date1799

MediumFlatware: sterling silver and ivory; Case: leather, wood, velvet and brass

DimensionsCase: 5/8 × 8 × 4 1/4 inches (1.6 × 20.3 × 10.8 cm)
Fork: 3/8 × 6 × 1/2 inches (1 × 15.2 × 1.3 cm)
Knife: 3/8 × 7 1/4 × 1/2 inches (1 × 18.4 × 1.3 cm)

MarkingsMaker's mark located on the blade of the knife: MB in a rectangular cartouche; Duty mark: [portrait of] George III 1795-1822; Mark: Lion Passant in shield; Date mark: D in shield;

Credit LineGift of Rhoda L. and Roger M. Berkowitz in honor of Julie and Steve Taylor.

Object number2016.7.a-c

On View

Not on view

CopyrightThe images and text contained on this page are owned by Telfair Museums or used by the Museum with permission from the owners. Unauthorized reproduction, transmission or display of these materials is prohibited with the exception of items deemed “fair use” as defined by U.S. and international copyright laws.Label TextThis cased christening set contains a sterling silver knife and fork with ivory handles. The maker Moses Brent had a virtual monopoly in London as a specialist knife-maker, supplying to the retail trade of his day. Inscribed on the knife blade are the recipient's initials, J F C. Silver has been traditionally thought to be beneficial for health and imbued with healing properties, and associated with wealth and prosperity due to its value and appearance. Silver christening gifts therefore signify the gift giver's desire for health and success for the child.

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