Accession Number1975/2.185
TitleOne of a set of 12 Apostle Spoons
Artist(s)GermanObject Creation Datelate 19th centuryMedium & Supportcast silverDimensions 6 1/8 in. ( 15.5 cm )
Credit LineGift of Raymond C. SmithSubject matterOriginating in early 15th-century Europe, Apostle spoons became popular christening and baptismal gifts by the early 16th century. A complete set traditionally contains thirteen spoons with representations of Christ (the Master spoon) and the twelve Apostles, each with his respective emblem, at the terminal end of the handle. The spoons—usually made out of silver, but sometime other metals such as pewter—were especially fashionable in Germany, Holland and England and were often gifted by a godparent to his or her godchild. The wealthiest godparents would gift a complete set, others a smaller number, and the most modest a single spoon. Complete sets of all twelve Apostle spoons (such as this set from Germany represented here) are quite rare, while sets including the figure of Jesus on a larger spoon are even more exceedingly rare.
Physical DescriptionSilver spoon with figure of a man at the terminal end of the handle
Primary Object Classification Decorative Arts Primary Object TypespoonCollection AreaWesternRightsIf you are interested in using an image for a publication, please visit
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Keywords
apostle
apostles
spoons