Late 18th Century Silver Folding Fruit Fork

An exquisite 18th Century silver folding fruit fork. This wonderful example has part hallmarked silver tines and a tactile mother-of-pearl handle. The handle and ferrule are both stylishly engraved with reeded decoration and finished with vacant oval cartouches to both sides. The cartouches and stud word are all beautifully engraved. The engraving extends to the fork tines, which are of superb bright cut decoration. The fork folds in two stages and sits tight in the handle when folded away. An unusual piece of Georgian silver and great collectors item. Hallmarks:- Partial marks, common with small Georgian items. Sterling lion and George III duty mark. Date:- circa 1790