Spoons 1650-2000 (Shire Library)

Spoons have perhaps the longest history of any artefact, having been forged ever since man discovered the importance of handling liquids. Simon Moore traces the history of English spoons, explaining the many changes in style and form, and exploring the corresponding social position through the ages. Spoons that once graced medieval ducal tables appear alongside those of base metal used by commoners is this beautiful history of an implement that has always held great fascination for collectors. The author examines the Arts and Crafts Movement's contributions to European designs at the end of the nineteenth century and shows how this influence was revisited by British designs over the following decades, whilst also offering the collector guidelines to follow should they find an antique spoon of unknown origin and date.