This is a magnificent 8.5" server with a heavy elaborate Swiss Guard finial.
The Papal Swiss Guard in the Vatican was founded in 1506 and is the only Swiss Guard that still exists although various other guards did exist for hundreds of years in other eras. The term, Swiss Guards, is the generic name given to units of Swiss soldiers who have served as bodyguards, ceremonial guards, and palace guards at European courts since the late 15th century. They are known to have a high degree of loyalty to their employers.
Front and back view of the swiss guard finial. Note the very detailed castings.
The guard's shield has a picture of the Pope on it.
This spoon is marked as being from the Canton of Glarus.
I suspect that a version of this spoon is available from each of the Swiss Cantons although I have never seen such a collection.
This spoon also comes in various sizes and lengths.
The spoon has an 830 marking indicating the silver quality and another mark which I have not identified.
It is very heavy, but I don't have a scale readily available at this time.
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