Antique Dutch Silver Tea Strainer Spoon with Movable Windmill Finial

A charming antique Dutch silver tea strainer or sugar sifter spoon, dating to the late 19th century and distinguished by its richly detailed decoration. The scalloped bowl features pierced scrolling foliage and an engraved pastoral canal scene with traditional Dutch houses, a small bridge and surrounding landscape motifs.

The gently twisted handle rises to an intricately modelled windmill finial with movable sails, adding a particularly appealing mechanical detail. Measuring 17 cm in length and weighing 53.4 grams, the spoon has a substantial presence and displays beautifully as an example of decorative Dutch silver craftsmanship.

Details

Item: Tea strainer or sugar sifter spoon

Origin: Netherlands

Date / Period: Late 19th century, likely circa 1890s

Material: Dutch silver, currently identified as approximately .830 silver

Maker: Unidentified

Decoration: Scalloped bowl with pierced floral scrollwork, engraved pastoral canal scene, twisted handle and modelled windmill finial with movable sails

Length: 17 cm

Weight: 53.4 grams

Condition

Excellent antique condition with no noticeable damage or repairs. Please review the photographs carefully for the full condition.

Historical and Collector Context

Dutch silver tea strainers and sugar sifter spoons are admired for their decorative craftsmanship and distinctive regional motifs. Examples produced during the late 19th century often incorporated scenes inspired by the Dutch landscape, including canals, village houses and windmills.

This spoon is especially appealing for its generous size, richly pierced bowl and three-dimensional windmill finial with movable sails. The combination of detailed ornament, mechanical movement and recognisable Dutch imagery makes it an attractive addition to a collection of antique silver, tea-related objects or European decorative tableware.

All items are vintage or antique and may show light signs of age. Please review all photos carefully as they form part of the description. Feel free to message with any questions prior to purchase.