Monkey spoons originated in the Netherlands in the seventeenth century and were hand wrought to mark a particular occasion such as a wedding, birth or funeral. This spoon is celebrate one of those events, as in the bowl is a repoussé scene of man attendig to his sheep or do and home in the distance and fruits on the bottom. The curved handle on the spoon allowed it to be hung from the rim of a punch bowl and these spoons were cherished possessions that were passed down within a family. The boss on this spoon is in the shape of a heart and the knop is in the form of a rooster with a long hook below. There is hallmark on the back of spoon handle, but I cannot identify it. Typically, these spoons were made out of 835 silver but this one has hallmark that I cannot identify (see picture) so I cannot guarantee to be sterling silver nor possibly 835 silver. The spoon measures 5-5/8" long (143 mm) in length, bowl is 1-3/4 inches (44 mm) across and is in excellent condition. A great idea for an unusual wedding gift or an outstanding example that would grace any collection! Also, a conversation piece. Shipping on multiple purchases is gladly combined. Please see other, some rare, collector spoons I'm currently listing.