Antique English Silverplate Sardine Fork

Of course we all are familiar with the basics: knives, spoons & forks. But what about all those other serving pieces that the Victorians were so fond of? The proper Victorian had a specialized utensil for every conceivable food so they would never have to touch anything with their hands - and that led to marrow spoons, ice-cream forks, cucumber servers, terrapin forks. One utensil more obscure and fascinating than the next! 

Behold, the Sardine Fork! With beautiful handles and five or seven petite tines to pay tribute to Earth's five oceans or the proverbial seven seas, we are always captivated by the varied designs and creative craftsmanship of these delightful utensils. Designed to serve sardines with ease by gracefully liberating each individual fish from its tin without breakage, these pretty forks were produced by fine silversmiths with an eye for beauty.

With a classic hotel silver logo for the Hendonway Restaurant, the sweet fork on the left with its clean lines was employed for guest dining in a London Railway station. The fork in the center simmers with delicately engraved detailing that creates a lovely contrast with its smooth bowl and 5 tines. Its natural mother-of-pearl handle is topped by an intricate ferrule crafted by silvermakers from Sheffileld England's Viner & Hall.

With a wide surface comprised of seven tines reminiscent of ocean waves, the graceful Art Nouveau motif of the third fork was rendered in sterling silver by historic American silvermaker R. Blackinton & Co. of North Attleboro, Massachusetts. Founded in 1862, Blackinton remains in business as the purveyor of choice for elite equestrian awards, in addition their line of Mint Julep Cups and limited edition Kentucky Derby gold jewelry created from reclaimed 14K gold used in the making of the official Derby trophy.

As citizens of the 21st century, Victorian rules of etiquette no longer apply! While these forks make great novel gifts for the sardine lover, they are versatile for multi-purpose service - we love using sardine forks for other tinned fish, cheeses, meats or even sliced tomatoes!

Each fork is strictly one of a kind and subject to prior sale. Please make selection from the drop down menu.  In very good condition. Fork A measures 1.25"W x 5.5"L. Fork B measures 1.5"W x 6"L. Fork C measures 2"W x 7"L.