1780–1820 East Frisian 12 Loth Silver Ladle (208 g) Northern Germany

$600.00
A substantial antique silver ladle attributed to the East Frisian or neighboring North Frisian region of northern Germany, dating to the late 18th or early 19th century. Measuring 13.25 inches in length and weighing 208 grams, this impressive example exhibits the robust construction and distinctive regional character of early German silver tableware. The handle terminates in a beautifully rendered scallop shell above a downturned finial, while the stem features an elegant four-sided drop that lends visual definition to the piece. The generously proportioned bowl is distinguished by a reinforced rim, and substantial overall construction. The combination of the elegant terminal, carefully worked stem, and sturdy bowl makes this a particularly appealing example of early regional silver craftsmanship. The ladle bears the number 12 twice, consistent with the traditional German 12-loth silver standard of approximately 750/1000 silver. A further mark may read VK, although the maker remains unidentified. The precise place of manufacture and silversmith have not been conclusively established, but the form and marking tradition are consistent with northern German regional silver. A possible engraving. The Hebrew characters כו (Kaf–Vav) have been tentatively identified on the piece. Read together, these letters can mean “so” or “thus” in Hebrew and have a numerical value of 26 in gematria, corresponding to the numerical value traditionally associated with the Tetragrammaton, the four-letter divine name in Jewish tradition. The significance of this engraving in the context of the ladle's original ownership or use remains uncertain, adding an intriguing dimension to its history without establishing a specific religious function. The ladle is in excellent antique condition, with no monogram, repairs, or notable condition issues reported. Its impressive scale, weight, sculptural terminal, and unusual Hebrew inscription make it an especially interesting addition to a collection of antique European silver, regional German craftsmanship, or Judaica-related objects. Length: 13.25 inches (33.7 cm). Weight is about 208 grams. Check out some of my other sterling silver flatware here: https://www.etsy.com/shop/DCSILVERSHOP?ref=search_shop_redirect§ion_id=7399760 Or just browse around the shop! https://www.etsy.com/shop/DCSILVERSHOP
A substantial antique silver ladle attributed to the East Frisian or neighboring North Frisian region of northern Germany, dating to the late 18th or early 19th century. Measuring 13.25 inches in length and weighing 208 grams, this impressive example exhibits the robust construction and distinctive regional character of early German silver tableware. The handle terminates in a beautifully rendered scallop shell above a downturned finial, while the stem features an elegant four-sided drop that lends visual definition to the piece. The generously proportioned bowl is distinguished by a reinforced rim, and substantial overall construction. The combination of the elegant terminal, carefully worked stem, and sturdy bowl makes this a particularly appealing example of early regional silver craftsmanship. The ladle bears the number 12 twice, consistent with the traditional German 12-loth silver standard of approximately 750/1000 silver. A further mark may read VK, although the maker remains unidentified. The precise place of manufacture and silversmith have not been conclusively established, but the form and marking tradition are consistent with northern German regional silver. A possible engraving. The Hebrew characters כו (Kaf–Vav) have been tentatively identified on the piece. Read together, these letters can mean “so” or “thus” in Hebrew and have a numerical value of 26 in gematria, corresponding to the numerical value traditionally associated with the Tetragrammaton, the four-letter divine name in Jewish tradition. The significance of this engraving in the context of the ladle's original ownership or use remains uncertain, adding an intriguing dimension to its history without establishing a specific religious function. The ladle is in excellent antique condition, with no monogram, repairs, or notable condition issues reported. Its impressive scale, weight, sculptural terminal, and unusual Hebrew inscription make it an especially interesting addition to a collection of antique European silver, regional German craftsmanship, or Judaica-related objects. Length: 13.25 inches (33.7 cm). Weight is about 208 grams. Check out some of my other sterling silver flatware here: https://www.etsy.com/shop/DCSILVERSHOP?ref=search_shop_redirect§ion_id=7399760 Or just browse around the shop! https://www.etsy.com/shop/DCSILVERSHOP