This extraordinary set of neoclassical style silver, comprising seventy pieces in three distinct forms—table, dessert, and teaspoons—is the most extensive set of matching, early American flatware known.

At the time, it was customary for a silversmith to produce a set of spoons for use with British-manufactured knives and forks. The latter, fitted with silver handles and steel blades and tines, are unknown by American craftsmen, presumably because they were more economical to import from English specialists. It was not until the 1840s when American silversmiths began to coordinate the production of the matching services that remain the fashion up to the present day.

Joseph Loring is said to have trained in Boston under his cousin, Benjamin Loring. At Bayou Bend he is represented by a teapot, sugar dish, two cream pots, and two spoons which are notable for having descended in his family. While a variety of hollowware bears his stamp, contemporary references suggest he developed a specialization in the production of jewelry and related small objects. During the course of his long career, Loring maintained professional relationships with a number of silversmiths, including Paul Revere, Jr.

Related examples: An identical pair of dessert spoons and a matching teaspoon at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, were once part of the Bornman service. These three pieces, a bequest from the legendary collector, Maxim Karolik, descended in the Amory family to his wife, Martha Codman Karolik. They have proven key to establishing the provenance of this important flatware and to furthering our understanding of this large commission.