English silver gilt St. Simon Apostle spoon, 1478 or 1538

This antique silver gilt Apostle spoon features a cast finial representing St. Simon, complete with a halo nimbus. The spoon, measuring 18.5 cm in length and weighing 57 grams, dates to the late 15th or early 16th century, specifically cited as London 1478 or 1538.

It is a notable example of early English silversmithing, potentially incorporating one of the earliest instances of an annual date letter hallmark. The fig-shaped bowl is decorated with an engraved Gothic letter 'B' surmounted by a Marquise coronet. The reverse side of the bowl displays prick-engraved initials 'FL'. As a formal Apostle spoon, the piece serves as a historical record of the evolution of hallmark traditions and British silver consumer protection.

The spoon’s construction utilizes traditional casting techniques for the finial, set atop a standard plain stem leading into the bowl, which bears the aforementioned engraved motifs. The gilt finish adds to its decorative nature, reflecting its status as an object of long-term collection and preservation.