12 Antique Silver-Plated Apostle Spoons, 19th Century.

An apostle spoon (usually silver or silver-plate) has an image of an apostle or other saint as the terminal of the handle, each bearing his distinctive emblem. Apostle spoons were particularly popular prior to the Reformation and they symbolize the Last Supper of Christ in the company of the Apostles. Apostle spoons were especially popular in 18th and 19th century England, but were also found in large numbers in Germany. Most sets show only one image on all the spoons, with the apostle simply holding what appears to be a book. In this set, however, each spoon has a unique image of each apostle. These spoons are heavy and substantial, with a bowl adequate for fruit or ice cream.