This large silverplated salad serving fork is the Columbia pattern, introduced in 1893.  It measures 10 1/4 inches long.  Condition is Excellent.  Backstamp: 1847 Rogers Bros. A1, (now International Silver Co.)

This Columbia pattern features a dolphin wrapped around the handle which was a popular motif during the Victorian era.  However, most Victorians never saw a dolphin up close.  Note the shape of the center fork tine.  It may have been inspired by the Victorian's concept of a dolphin's tongue which they believed to be forked and dragon-like.  They also believed a dolphin had scales like a fish.

Thank you for shopping with us for antique silver and silverplate silverware patterns.