Lot 1201: 12 Silver Flatware Items, B. C. Wells & J. W. Moir

1st – 8th items: Eight pieces of Gorham sterling silver flatware pieces including 6 teaspoons, 1 master butter knife, and 1 berry spoon or sugar shell. All with retailer marks “B. C. Wells” for Benjamin C. Wells (ca. 1841–1913), who was a watchmaker, jeweler, and silversmith who trained in East Tennessee (Blount County) before establishing his career in the deep South, Texas, and later California. These pieces are accompanied by a letter on B. C. Wells, Austin, TX, company letterhead, gifting these pieces to his sister Ada (Maryville, TN) upon her marriage. Housed in a satin-lined dark olive box. Ranging in size from 5 3/4 in. L to 7 1/2 in. L. Box measures 2 in. H x 8 in. sq. 5.78 total troy ounces. 9th – 12th items: Four (4) coin silver forks with incuse marks for J. & W. Moir (New York, NY, active ca. 1845). 7 in. L. 5.23 total troy ounces.

PROVENANCE: The collection of Marty and David Black, Rockford, TN.

CONDITION: 1st – 8th pieces: All in good condition with script monogram AJB. 9th – 12th items: All pieces in good condition, engraved on the back of the handle, Louisa.