Antique 18th Century Folk Art Wrigglework Engraved Pewter Spoon - St Bartholomew
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A superb antique 18th century folk art wrigglework engraved pewter spoon with an image depicting who I believe to be St Bartholomew, whose symbol is a knife and he is seen in many paintings – particularly earlier Byzantine period paintings – or mosaics – of Christ with his disciples on the walls and ceilings of churches – and in the sculpture in Milan cathedral – holding a lethal looking knife as his attribute.
The style of engraving is relatively naive, which fits the folk art traditions or more rustic craftsmanship of the period.
The figure’s depiction, with minimal detailing and the suggestion of a halo, reflects popular religious or cultural motifs of the time. The 1700s also featured many religious and historical engravings, especially on functional objects like spoons, where saints or important figures were often depicted.
There is an initial of ‘A’ engraved into the back of the handle, as well as the initials of ‘S.B.M’ to the bottom of the bowl, which I wonder could be an abbreviation of sorts of St Bartholomew?
It’s a marvelous piece of early folk art!
Condition is good, commensurate with age and use. Structurally sound with good strong imagery.
Measures 18.5cm in length
Weighs 45.84 grams