Sterling Silver Mote Spoon c1730

Description

Heading : Sterling silver mote spoon
Date : c1730 – marked for Philip Roker
Period : George II
Origin : London. England
Decoration : Pierced bowl
Size :  12x2cm
Condition : Excellent
Restoration : None
Weight :  5 grams

During the late 17th and early 18th centuries. loose tea was not graded as it is today so a way of removing 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 entering them into the pot.  They may also have been used as a simple tea strainer. The pointed terminal to the handle was designed to clear the teapot spout of any blockage.