Late colonial to early Federation Australian sterling silver Tasmanian souvenir spoon, William Golding (Golding & Sons)

An elegant late colonial to early Federation Australian sterling silver Tasmanian souvenir spoon, with the bowl shaped like Tasmania and a gumleaf design to stem, circa late 19th to early 20th century.

Marked GOLDING STG SILVER to back of bowl, indicating this was made by Golding and Sons, noted silversmiths in Hobart, Tasmania. Golding worked independently from 1875 at 52 Murray Street, and would later purchase his mentor David Barclay’s business upon the latter’s retirement. William Golding would list his main premises by 1878 at 96 Liverpool Street, with branches including Murray Street and Launceston. He would also be a prominent smallholder at the Tasmanian Exhibition, held in Launceston, 1891. The firm, Tasmania’s oldest jeweller’s, would remain active until 2024 and its premises cornering Liverpool and Elizabeth St was known as “Golding’s Corner”, making this spoon a piece of Tasmanian and Australian history.

Price marked at $300 AUD.

Measurements: 17.3 grams total weight, 14.5cm length.

Excellent antique condition with minor wear overall commensurate with age, marks crisp and clear.