Antique Sterling Silver Shell Sugar Spoon, Sheffield 1889 & Chester 1903

A distinctive antique English sterling silver sugar spoon with a finely fluted shell-shaped bowl and an ornate relief-decorated handle. The spoon is a composite antique piece assembled from two genuine hallmarked sterling silver components of different dates.

The shell-shaped bowl was crafted by Atkin Brothers and assayed in Sheffield in 1889. The richly decorated handle was made by James Deakin & Sons and assayed in Chester in 1903. Its elaborate raised decoration includes scrolling floral motifs, beaded borders and a finely modelled terminal, creating an attractive contrast with the clean shell-form bowl.

The combination of two separately hallmarked antique components gives the spoon an unusual character and makes it an appealing decorative tableware piece for display or occasional use.

Details

Item: Composite antique sugar spoon

Origin: England

Date / Period: Components hallmarked Sheffield 1889 and Chester 1903

Material: Sterling silver .925

Makers: Atkin Brothers and James Deakin & Sons

Bowl: Shell-shaped bowl by Atkin Brothers, Sheffield 1889

Handle: Ornate relief-decorated handle by James Deakin & Sons, Chester 1903

Hallmarks: English sterling silver hallmarks including lion passant, Sheffield assay marks and Chester assay marks

Length: 14 cm

Weight: 22 grams

Condition

Very good antique condition with light age-related surface wear consistent with previous use. The spoon is a composite piece assembled from two antique sterling silver components of different dates, as reflected in the hallmarks and shown in the photographs. Please review the photographs carefully for the full condition.

Historical and Collector Context

Atkin Brothers was a recognised Sheffield silversmithing firm with a long history of producing silver flatware, hollowware and decorative tableware. James Deakin & Sons was established in Sheffield during the 19th century and became known for a wide range of silver and silver-plated wares.

This spoon is particularly interesting because it combines two genuine English sterling silver components hallmarked in different assay offices and periods. The Sheffield shell-shaped bowl and later Chester handle create an unusual decorative object with clear antique character and a strong visual presence.

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.