Fish Slice
Datec. 1820 - 1839
Mediumsilver
Dimensions12 1/4 inches (31.1 cm)
MarkingsMaker's mark stamped on the handle back: FM [in rectangle];
Pseudo-hallmarks stamped on the handle back in rectangles: king's head; lion passant; D
Credit LineGift of James A. Williams.
Object number1968.18.73
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 TextEarly fish servers were shaped like a trowel, but eventually makers created the distinctive asymmetrical blade shape, seen here. They were often elaborately decorated with pierced shapes on the blades. The handles of these fish carvers began to follow the flatware patterns of the day so that consumers could buy matching table cutlery. This one has a fiddle thread handle that is inscribed AL.
Frederick Marquand (1799-1882) was born and raised in Connecticut but worked as a silversmith and retailer in Savannah from 1820 to 1825 in partnership with his cousin, Josiah Penfield (1785-1828), under the name J. Penfield & Co. In 1826, he relocated to New York City, where he continued his trade along with various family members until 1839. The Marquands had a very successful business, and a huge amount of silver bearing his mark is still extant. Telfair Museums' silver collection currently holds 93 individual pieces of silver with Marquand's mark.
