Tiffany & Co., United States. Set of 73 sterling silver flatware in the "Grecian" pattern, ca. late 19th century. Including 17 salad forks, 18 dinner forks, 12 dessert spoons, 12 lunch spoons, and 14 dinner spoons. Each monogramed along the handle. Each marked along the underside of the handle. Also included in the lot is a set of 12 J. Russell & Co. mother-of-pearl handled silverplate knives, marked along the blade.

Provenance: From the collection of Malcolm E. Lein, former director of the Minnesota Museum of American Art.

Malcolm Emil Lein (1913-2003) was the director of the Minnesota Museum of American Art during its early and formative years. During his 30-year tenure, he fought to procure the museum funding, grow its permanent collection, and establish it as St. Paul's premiere gallery. Along with his wife Miriam, who worked at the Walker Art Center, he was a fixture in the Twin Cities artistic community throughout his life.
Gross weight of sterling (not including 12 silverplate knives): 121.59 Troy oz.

Light wear, scratches, and light tarnishing throughout. No major bends or breaks. One of the handles of the mother-of-pearl knives may have been partially replaced with silver, visible in the lot listing.