Johann Adam Kienlin II German silver-gilt spoon

engraved with foliage, the reverse of the stem inscribed

Exh. Cat. Museum für Angewandte Kunst Frankfurt, 2004, no. 66B

In overall very good condition, light wear to gilding on the rat tail. Legible marks on bowl, very nice quality of engraving.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The inscription reads: ‘A: 1700. D. 14. Xbris, nachts, Zv: 10 u: 11 uhr, ist gebohren, Anna Regina Kienlerin, ihr Gevatter war, Albrecht Cramer. G.G.G.’

This inscription records that Anna Regina Kienlerin was born on 14 December 1700, at 11 o’clock at night and that her godfather was Albrecht Cramer. The initials G.G.G. represent the pious wish, ‘God Gib Gnad’ (God Give Grace).

Johann Adam Kienlin was born in Ulm in 1661, the son of a goldsmith of the same name. Although he served his apprenticeship under his father between 1672 and 1676, it is not known when he became a master goldsmith. The local guild documents record that he took his first apprentice in 1683. He died in 1740.

Because both father and son used the same maker’s mark it is difficult to distinguish their work apart, particular that made during the years preceding the elder Kienlin’s death in 1691.