A large and decorative 13 5/8 inch coin silver ladle by Joseph Werne, Jr., Louisville, Kentucky.

Werne was a long time partner of John Kitts, and much silver bearing the mark of "Kitts & Werne" was produced by that firm. When Kitts died in the 1870s, Werne continued the business under the same name although silver marked only "J.Werne" was sold by the surviving partner. This elegant ladle would date from that decade and Werne sold his business in the early 1880s and retired. This ladle shows feathered engraving along the handle borders, a gold washed and fluted oval bowl and a long, tapered handle that connects to the bowl with a wishbone (see photos). An elegant, Victorian Period ladle from one of Louisville's finest maker's of the period.

$750.