A TWO PIECE AMERICAN STERLING SILVER FISH SERVING SET, BY ROBERT AND WILLIAM WILSON, PHILADELPHIA,1825-1877, comprising a fish serving knife with a stylized fish head on a broad hand chased and engraved sinuously shaped blade, centering nicely detailed scaly sides tapering to a curled tail and ending on a bead and shell trimmed solid handle, verso blade stamped "R & W. WILSON PHILADA. STERLING," length: 14 1/2"; together with an elaborately engraved serving fork with five tines enclosing various scrolling foliate details on a similarly engraved body of stylized acanthus leaves flanking a flaring shell motif, ending before a bead and shell trimmed solid handle stamped "R & W. WILSON," length: 13 3/8," total approximate weight: 11.955 troy oz; enclosed in an embossed leather hinged case opening to a deep green silk and velvet lined interior with gilt printed oval belt reserve "ESTABLISHED 1812 / WM. WILSON & SON. / Manufacturers of / Silver Ware / S.W. Cor. of 5th & Cherry Sts / PHILADA." length: 15 5/8".   Note: Robert & William Wilson were two brother silversmiths recorded as having had a partnership firm in Philadelphia from 1825-1846. In 1846 Robert died but William continued the use of the R & W Wilson stamp until 1877 when he disbanded the company and re-opened as William Wilson & Son, lasting until 1909 when the firm finally closed its doors.   Provenance: Estate of Francis E. And Henrietta C. Judson, Wayne, Pennsylvania.

The silver set is in good condition with normal tarnish and a tiny edge ding on serving knife. The case exterior top has expected surface scratches, old watermark, wear, some lifting of the leather covering, and is a little dry, while interior is in amazingly good shape.   Simpson Galleries strongly encourages in-person inspection of items by the bidder. Statements by Simpson Galleries regarding the condition of objects are for guidance only and should not be relied upon as statements of fact and do not constitute a representation, warranty, or assumption of liability by Simpson Galleries. All lots offered are sold "AS IS." NO REFUNDS will be issued based on condition.