William IV Queens Pattern Silver Mustard Spoon by John Muir Junior, Glasgow 1838

A Queens pattern silver mustard spoon by John Muir Junior of Glasgow with a monogram ‘A’. On the back is a Glasgow hallmark and the date mark T for 1838.

The once gilded bowl is scratched, but otherwise the spoon is in excellent condition with no dents and clear hallmarks. Surprisingly heavy for its size.

Very little is known of John Muir, Jnr, except for a mention in 1855 in the Edinburgh Incorporation of Goldsmiths. The Queens pattern was a popular pattern during the 19th century. Based on an 18th century French design, the shape was introduced into Britain in the early 1800s as the Hourglass pattern and from there developed into the popular Kings pattern and Queens pattern. The most decorative of the three, the Queens pattern features a shell at the end of the handle with a flower head and honeysuckle motif.