Three individual sterling silver snuff spoons. A selection of fine, and early English made silver spoons. These spoons are each unique looking, and wonderful hand made quality. They were often used as salt spoons or for the use of snuff. The longer scoop version is also vermeil (gold plated over sterling silver), although has taken on a much softer color after over one hundred and twenty years of use. This spoon also has a different end that tapers to more of a point offering up different uses. This is also more robust, and a thicker gauge of silver. A finely-ground smokeless tobacco inhaled through the nostrils, ‘taking snuff’ originated in the Americas and was introduced into Spain following Columbus’s second voyage to the New World in the 1490s. The supposed medicinal properties of tobacco saw it spread around Europe, rising in fortune in the 1560s when the French Queen Catherine de’ Medici declared it a wonder for headaches (it had been recommended by John Nicot, who later gave his name to nicotine). The fashion spread throughout Europe, and by the 1700s snuff was considered a luxury product and mark of refinement. Though the stereotypical image of the snuff taker is the Georgian dandy, it was also popular among women George III's queen was so fond of it that she earned the nickname ‘Snuffy Charlotte’. As with most fashions it fell from favour, as new stimulants appeared. Please note the price is for each spoon. Two of the three are still available. The sizes of each and age are listed below: Plain small spoon. Made in Chester in 1825. Length 6cm Round bowl, twisted handle. Made in Sheffield in 1991. Length 8.5cm Double ended long scoop. Made in London in 1899. Length 8.75cm * Please note this one is now sold.
