Description
up for offer is an Extremely rare southern coin silver water dipper ca 1850's , this is one of the rarest pieces of southern silver I have ever owned , just purchased from an old southern family originally from Virgiina , this piece has been in their family for generations ! one of the rarest forms of southern silver the water dipper was used on large plantation in the south in entrance ways of porches hung next to a water cistern of some type , for mostly male quests and gentleman , because silver was thought to have antiseptic qualities , silver was used for these items , the shape on the dippers bowl resembles a coconut , due to the fact some dippers were made using a coconut shell lined with silver , this dipper is one of the finest you will ever see , most have wooden handles but this piece is totally made of coin silver , the motif is lovely , flowers and leaf design , on bottom of bowl is a scalloped shaped starburst , at top of dipper is a motif of grapes , on the bowl is engraved from my mother , piece still has original ring loop , which is rare , piece is unmarked which is usual . the dipper measures 13 1/2 inches in length , dipper measures 4 inches long and 3 1/2 inches wide at opening , the dipper is in fantastic shape for age , two dents on bowl of dipper one in the front and one on the side of bowl , otherwise mint , no splits or damage , again this is one of the rarest pieces of southern silver you will ever see , hope it goes to a good home or collection , item sold as is , thanks and good luck !
