Advanced Search 
Spoon
Attributed to: Gideon Myrick (after 1735–about 1760)
about 1755–60
Object Place: Possibly Eastham, Massachusetts
Medium/Technique
Silver
Dimensions
4.1 x 20.3 cm (1 5/8 x 8 in.)
Credit Line
Gift in memory of Ruth P. and Pauline Dennis
Accession Number1990.349
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsAmericas
ClassificationsSilver flatware
The sparse record of Gideon Myrick’s short life notes that “he was a goldsmith by trade; went to sea, fell overboard in the night and was drowned.” Although no birth record exists, he was probably born between 1734 and 1741 to Elizabeth Osborne (1715 – 1798) and Capt. William Myrick (d. 1742) of Eastham, on Cape Cod, who married in 1734/35.
This spoon is one of only four known to carry the “G : M” mark, which has recently been ascribed to Myrick.
This text has been adapted from "Silver of the Americas, 1600-2000," edited by Jeannine Falino and Gerald W.R. Ward, published in 2008 by the MFA. Complete references can be found in that publication.
This spoon is one of only four known to carry the “G : M” mark, which has recently been ascribed to Myrick.
This text has been adapted from "Silver of the Americas, 1600-2000," edited by Jeannine Falino and Gerald W.R. Ward, published in 2008 by the MFA. Complete references can be found in that publication.
DescriptionThe midrib spoon with upturned tip has a handle that is rectangular in section; it terminates in a rounded and slashed drop on elliptical bowl.
Marks
Stamped "G : M" within a rectangle on back of stem.
Ada Mark F1141
Ada Mark F1141
InscriptionsEngraved "I * N / E * B" on back of spoon near tip of handle.
ProvenanceAlthough the engraved initials are unidentified, this spoon descended to the donors along with an earlier spoon (1990.348) that John Coney made for the Gibbs/Shrimpton/Hastings families of Boston and Salem.