Rare Antique Dutch Silver Serving Tongs - Jointed Fork & Spoon Richly Engraved

So beautiful, this rare Antique Dutch Silver Serving Tong is jointed as a fork and spoon and richly engraved. Often used as sandwich, salad tongs or serving tongs for crab legs, this rare to find and exceptional silver piece was made in the mid 1800's. The hand stippled and engraved feminine handle patterned with elegant Louis XVI Rococo styling is typical of fine silver from the 1850's. Large size, finely made, the top has an interlocking decorative nut that attaches the two separate pieces. Each arm is hand engraved with beautiful flourishes and flowers.

In the 1800's salad was served without dressing, on the plate it would be 'dressed' with oil and vinegar from a silver and crystal cruet set. A beautiful piece, in good antique condition for a piece of silver over 170 years old that was used by the family for Sunday and holiday dinners for generations. A rare and quite unusual piece to add to your collection of sterling and continental silver. Unmarked, some of the earlier marks are very very tiny, I have not been able to find the maker.

• Measures 11" l x 3"w.