A set of three Ottoman gem-set spoons, Turkey, 18th century

comprising one spoon with wooden bowl affixed to a carved coral handle, mounted at the head with a diamond-inlaid terminal in the form of an aigrette, one silver spoon with repoussé decoration featuring a snake in the bowl and coat-of-arms with dove at the head, with silver-stamp, the tortoiseshell spoon with diamond-set aigrette head

In overall good condition, the tortoiseshell spoon with small chips along border of the bowl, some restoration near the head, the wood spoon in good condition, the silver spoon with few very minor knocks consistent with age and use, as viewed.
"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."

These three spoons, each composed of a luxurious material, represents one of the multi-faceted ways in which spoons intended for the nobility were constructed in the Ottoman period. Numerous examples are in the Topkapi Palace Museum (see Atasoy 1992, p.204).