This is an antique mid 18th century, Georgian era, English hallmarked sterling silver serving ladle made in the Rococo style with assymetrical design elements incorporating seashell motifs that was produced by the silversmiths, Richard Gurney and Thomas Cook. There is considerable surface wear from use and a noticeable repair to the handle which in turn covered the portion of the hallmarks that indicate the production year of the piece. From the style and history of the makers, this is a circa 1750 flatware serving piece. The estimate factors in the repair and is based on actual recent past recorded auction sales of comparables. Retail 'asking prices' can be higher and vary.