Wendell Mfg. Co. Sterling Silver Bright-Cut Teaspoons, Set of 6 — Dated 1898

A matched set of six American sterling silver teaspoons by Wendell Manufacturing Company, each handle decorated with bright-cut engraved roses, leaves, and foliate scrollwork framing an Old English script "M" monogram. The reverse of at least one spoon carries a hand-engraved date of 1898, placing this set squarely in the late Victorian era. Each piece is stamped STERLING with the Wendell Mfg. Co. maker's cartouche on the back of the bowl.

Bright-cut engraving — executed with angled gravers that catch and scatter light across the polished silver — was the hallmark decorative technique of American silversmithing in the 1880s and 1890s. A monogrammed and dated set of this quality almost certainly commemorated a significant occasion: a wedding, anniversary, or milestone gift in 1898. Chicago-based Wendell Manufacturing was a respected producer of sterling flatware and hollowware through the late 19th and early 20th centuries, supplying the retail trade with well-made silver at a step below the grandes maisons. Total sterling weight for the set is 233.2 grams.

CONDITION

Good with no remarkable damage. Surfaces show expected tarnish and light wear consistent with age and use; polishing is left to the new owner. Engraving remains crisp on all six handles.

DIMENSIONS / SPECIFICATIONS

• Quantity: 6 spoons
• Each: 7" L × 1½" W × 1¼" D
• Total Weight: 233.2 grams
• Material: Sterling silver
• Maker: Wendell Mfg. Co.
• Marks: Wendell Mfg. Co. cartouche + STERLING, stamped on back of bowl
• Monogram: "M" (Old English script, bright-cut)
• Date Engraved: 1898