Apostle Spoon Set

A vintage English EPNS Apostle spoon set with sugar tongs.

Apostle spoons are a set of thirteen silver spoons, with the main thirteen being a complete set of the apostles, plus Jesus Christ represented by the Master spoon. They originated in Europe in the 15th century and were often given as christening gifts, with the number of spoons corresponding to the age of the child in months. The spoons are typically made of sterling silver and feature a figure of an apostle or Christ on the finial of each handle. While original 15th-century Apostle spoons are rare and highly valuable, sets were also produced in later periods, including the Victorian and Edwardian eras, often as reproductions or in silver-plated (EPNS) versions. These later sets, while less valuable than their antique counterparts, are still collectible and appreciated for their historical and religious significance, as well as their decorative appeal.

• Period: Late Victorian/Edwardian Era
• Origin: England