Antique 19th Century "Le Chien D'Or" Quebec Silver Plated Souvenir Spoon With Historic 1736 Inscription

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Add an exceptional conversation piece to an antique cabinet, library desk, or curio collection with this rare late 19th-century sterling … Read more Add an exceptional conversation piece to an antique cabinet, library desk, or curio collection with this rare late 19th-century sterling silver souvenir spoon.

Measuring 4 3/4 inches long, this piece is an exquisite example of historical storytelling in metalwork, beautifully illustrating the legendary Canadian tale of "Le Chien d'Or" (The Golden Dog).The handle features masterful French-inspired repoussé details, including classic fleur-de-lis scrollwork and a prominent architectural crown finial.

The bowl displays a remarkably crisp, deep relief of a dog gnawing a bone, framed by a legendary 1736 French inscription.This iconography originates from a carved stone plaque erected in Quebec City by merchant Nicolas Jacquin Philibert as a bold, public expression of defiance against the corrupt French Intendant, François Bigot.

This historic emblem of colonial vengeance later inspired William Kirby’s famous 1877 novel, The Golden Dog. The intricate Old French poem struck within the bowl reads:“Je suis un chien qui ronge lo / En le rongeant je prend mon repos / Un tems viendra qui n’est pas venu / Que je morderay qui m’aura mordu”English Translation:"I am a dog that gnaws a bone / In gnawing it I take my rest / A time will come, which has not yet come / When I will bite him who has bitten me"

Offered in immaculate, untouched antique condition with a rich, natural luster, this unique curio reflects the absolute highest tier of specialized antiquarian sourcing.

Expertly packed, insured, and shipped completely free within the continental United States. See less