Luncheon Fork
Datec. 1850
Mediumsilver
Dimensions6 1/2 inches (16.5 cm)
MarkingsMaker's mark stamped on the handle back: GRIFFEN PATENT 1846
Credit LineGift of Miss Jeanne Heard Hunter in memory of Emma Ingram Watkins.
Object number1992.9.1.2
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 TextSilversmith George M. Griffen began his career in watch repair, silversmithing, and jewelry in Troy, New York around 1827. His presence was advertised in 1839 in Athens, Georgia, and by 1850 he is listed in a Savannah directory as a watchmaker. In 1852 he advertised as “successor to M. Eastman” at 94 Bryan Street.
One of three luncheon forks in the Olive pattern, a “W” is inscribed on the back of this fork. In table settings of this era, it was common practice to lay the forks and spoons facing down (in the French manner), and they were often decorated on both sides. The Olive pattern, involving a threaded stem and rounded handle embellished with clusters of leaves at the top and bottom of a space commonly used for inscriptions, also seems to have originated in France. Hyde & Goodrich of New Orleans, imitating their French imports, offered Olive pattern wares by 1823.
