George III Antique Silver Marrow Scoop Spoon, Dublin 1782.

Object Description

This George III sterling silver spoon is double ended. It has a regular spoon end and the long narrow end is for scooping marrow out of bones.

Weight 59g, 1.8 troy oz.
Length 24.5cm, 9.6ins.
Dublin 1782.
Maker John Pittar.
Staerling silver.

Marks. Stamped under the handle with a full and clear set of Irish silver hallmarks.

Maker: John Pittar

The Pittar family was of French Huguenot origin, and established themselves in Dublin as goldsmiths on arrival in Ireland during a period of religious persecution of protestants in France.
In 1757 goldsmith John Pittar I, was admitted by service as a Freemen of the city of Dublin, having completed an apprenticeship. In 1780 his son John Pittar II, goldsmith and flatware specialist, was admitted as a freeman by birth. His mark was entered in Dublin 1784. Address 21, Ross Lne, Bride St (1784-1803), 10 Stephens Green (1804-1814), Windy Harbour (1815-1825). John junior’s son Parke Pittar, goldsmith, was admitted Freeman of the City by birth in 1807.
Due to severe economic problems in Ireland during the 19th century there was a severe decline in the market for fine silver items and many tradesmen emigrated, including Parke Pittar and possibly his father. Pittar settled in Calcutta, India, where a branch of the family traded as silversmiths (c. 1831-1848), and tried to rebuild their lives.
Records from the Landed Estate Courts Rentals that show properties previously owned by the Pittar family, sold from the 1850s and by 1901 the Irish census recorded that there were no longer any Pittar descendants in the country.

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Object Literature

The marrow scoop, used for scooping marrow from a bone, was made in great quantities during the 18th century. Probably only one or two were provided with a service for a dozen people and therefore were used communally. The earlier examples have fatter and shorter bowls.

Object Condition

This special spoon is in good condition and shows moderate signs of wear commensurate with age. The bowl of the spoon is not worn and still retains its original shape.

Object Details