Sterling Silver Mote Spoon c1730

Heading : Early 18th century pierced silver Mote spoon c1730
Date : c1730
Period : George II
Origin : England
Decoration : Foliate pierced rim with geometric centre. Engraved underside and neck
Size :  Length 13.6cm. bowl width 2.5cm
Condition : Very good. The terminal is very slightly bent
Restoration : None
Weight :10.9g

Mote spoons were a precursor to the later ubiquitous tea caddy spoon.  During the late 17th and early 18th centuries. loose tea was not graded as it is today. A method to remove the dust and detritus from the tea leaves was required. The pierced bowl allowed the user to shake the leaves clean and remove the ‘mote’ before adding leaves into the pot.  The pointed terminal to the handle was designed to clear the teapot spout of any blockage.

This example bears a maker’s mark. RS but no other hallmarks. Tests as silver.