“Apostle” spoon with St. Simon, silver, England, 18th century.
2100,00 zł
Spoon, so called “apostolic” with a handle topped with a full-figured figure of St. Simon Zelota holding a saw, which is his attribute. The head of the saint topped with a circular shield with a representation of a bird (probably a dove symbolizing the Holy Spirit). Item of liturgical or collectible nature.
2 in stock
St. Simon - symbol of steadfast faith and martyrdom
Saint Simon Zelota, depicted with a saw - the instrument of his martyrdom - symbolizes uncompromising devotion to God and spiritual strength in the face of persecution. In Christian iconography, his figure appears less frequently than other apostles, so figurines with his image are unique. The bird in the shield above his head may be shown a dove, as a sign of the presence of the Holy Spirit or a saved soul.
Historical context
Goldsmithing and craftsmanship flourished in 18th-century England, particularly in Birmingham and Sheffield. Despite religious tensions, some workshops made devotional items for export or for local Catholic communities. Apostolic spoons were part of larger symbolic sets - one for each apostle - used in religious ceremonies or as patronage items. Sometimes they were given as mementos of baptism or confirmation.
Collector's value
The rare spoon with St. Simon has a high collector value due to the preservation of the figure, the rare attribute and the technique of manufacture. Attractive for collectors of devotional items, antique silver and martyr symbolism.
PThe precision of detail, balanced composition and goldsmith's craftsmanship reflect the high level of English craftsmanship. The carved headpiece, the relif of the bird and the sawtooth are signs of the saint's individualization.
Application (Utility)
A museum exhibit, a sacred object in collections or shrine interiors, can also serve as a commemorative, decorative, patronage object.
Curiosity
In some areas of England and Scotland, apostolic spoons were made as "baptismal silver spoons" given to a child for baptism - a symbol of the spiritual guidance of a chosen apostle.
Looking for unique sacred crafts?
Silver apostolic spoon with St. Simon is a rare example of old religious craftsmanship. Ideal for a collection, as a patron gift or as a display piece. See more of our products in the category antique silver.
| Weight | 0,044 kg |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 17,5 × 4,5 × 1,8 cm |
| Type |
Sacred object / part of a liturgical set |
| Form |
Spoon with a figure of a saint on the handle |
| State of preservation |
Very good. |
Related products
Belt link, gilded silver, Poland, 17th century
Charles Julius Minter (1812 – 1892), Casket with lid in the form of a tombstone of King Stefan Batory, tin
Przeworsk belt buckle, gilt silver, Poland, 17th century.
Stepping lion, gilt silver, Western Europe, 17th-18th century.
Table spoon, silver, Poland, ca. 1650
Wooden Spoon with ‘V’ Initial, Germany, 19th Century.
This hand-carved wooden spoon, 23 cm long, originates from Poland and is dated to the 19th century or earlier. The deep, functional bowl shows clear signs of use. The handle is adorned with serrated line carvings and a 'V' initial, likely for owner identification. A leather strap with an old collector's paper tag remains attached to the end.
In the 19th century in Poland, spoons of this type were among the basic items of everyday use on rural and pastoral farms. They were made by hand from a single piece of wood, which was part of the tradition of Polish folk craftsmanship, based on simple, durable materials.
Copies with preserved markings are rare today, documenting the development of Polish material culture and everyday practices of village life.