| One of the most unusual patterns in all of silver flatware is Durgin's circa 1880 "Bug" pattern, which almost defies classification. Handles of Durgin Bug flatware are teeming with realistically rendered insects, as well as one snake. Judging from the paucity of examples on the market today, as well as the probable lack of interest in eating utensils decorated with disease-bearing creatures, the pattern must have been a commercial failure in its day. There are two variations in the pattern, each depicting a different set of bugs. Of course, this is my favorite flatware pattern of all time; however, I would love to know with what customer in mind the pattern was manufactured. Pictured here are a sardine fork and a cold meat fork, showing the two variations in the pattern. |
