An unusual eighteenth-century George III period silver naturalistic nutmeg grater, modelled in the form of a acorn. Interestingly, the piece is formed in three parts and is apparently unmarked. The cover with turned acorn-shaped finial is secured with a screw thread fitting, which opens to reveal a blue steel rasp, this middle section is also secured with a second screw thread which is secured to the lower section, which is of flared cylindrical form, and would be used to house the nutmeg pod itself.
 
This piece is a rare form of nutmeg grater, not only being acorn-shaped, but the tri-section design is a highlight.
 
The piece is apparently unmarked, however given the method of construction and design, we would attribute this piece as being English, almost certainly London-made and it would date to c.1760.
 
A similar form, albeit with the typical rasp insert design, as opposed to the separate screwthread section, is illustrated as part of The Robert and Meredith Green Collection of Nutmeg Graters, pp.24-25.
 
Dimensions: 
Height: 4.6cm
Width (at widest point): 2.8cm.
Weight: 19.6 grams total.
 
Condition:
Excellent antique condition. Lovely colour and patination. No evidence of repair. All covers are well-fitting and are intact. Both screw thread mechanisms are in excellent working order.