Asparagus Serving Fork Appraisal

Silver-plated Asparagus Serving Fork and Pastry Fork

This set consists of two distinct silver-plated serving utensils featuring a classic fiddle-style handle with a rounded, flared terminal decorated with a subtle heart-shaped or spade scroll motif at the base of the neck. The larger item is an asparagus serving fork, characterized by its wide, flat tines and a specific notched outer tine designed to cradle delicate stalks. The smaller item is a pastry or dessert fork, featuring three broad tines with a similar notched edge on the leftmost tine, intended for cutting through crusts. Both pieces appear to be mid-20th-century silver plate, showing significant signs of age and use. There is heavy surface tarnish (patina) across the metal, particularly concentrated around the tines and the lower portions of the handles. Fine surface scratches (polishing marks) are visible throughout. The craftsmanship suggests a commercial-grade manufacturer, likely from a mid-century American or European silver company, though specific maker's marks are not visible on the handles' upper surfaces. The construction is solid and heavy-gauge, indicating durable everyday luxury items of their period. No major structural bending is present, but the silver plating may be thinning in high-contact areas beneath the tarnish.