scarce Homeric style, signed, #492, 6 3/4", circa 1880's....George W: Shiebler (Baltimore 1846 - New York 1920) in 1875 purchased the business of Coles & Reynolds, manufacturers of silver spoons and in 1876 began the activity under his own name employing a work force of five men.In 1883 he purchased the factory of Morgan Morgans, merging this plant with his others.After the acquisition of flatware dies of A & W Wood, Henry Hebbard, Hebbard & Pothamus and Theodore Evans & Co he moved the factory to Brooklyn.In the beginning Shiebler made only spoons and forks but its line was gradually expanded to a largest line of silverware.Shiebler was a highly skilled and innovative designer and over the years obtained a number of patents flatware patterns and souvenir spoons.In 1892 the firm was incorporated as George W. Shiebler & Co.The company was especially noted for his medallion work, inspired to the excavations of Pompeii and Herculaneum, oxidized silver and transparent enamel work.Some of the handsomest enamelling works done in the United States came from Shiebler factory. Two special artists were employed for this work alone. Five designers and nine die sinkers created exclusive designs and dies which made George W. Shiebler famous in every silver and jewelry house of the country.In 1910 Shiebler failed in business, dissolved the firm and worked for Gorham until his death in 1920.