A group of 13 exceptional French parcel-gilt 19th century silverware pieces

A group of 13 exceptional French parcel-gilt 19th century silverware pieces

Anonymous (unmarked)
Probably Paris, France / ca. 1885
Silver, horn and celluloid shell

Approximate sizes: between 18.5 to 26 cm

A unique group of thirteen Napoleon III period silverware pieces, beautifully styled and richly decorated, featuring gilt embellishments, an engraved monogram—set in cartouches on each handle—and the incorporation of a shaped blonde horn fork and spoon on the pair of salad servers and carved shell blades on the pair of matching caviar knives. Accompanying knives feature ornate floral motifs, elegantly realized and harmonizing with their decorative handles which boast a diamond-themed Renaissance revival motif.

While horn and silver are more common in French silverware of this period, particularly rare is the use of celluloid shell for blades.

Top: horn and silver salad fork and spoon; Left-to-right: large fish knife, a serving knife, large lettuce fork, small cheese knife, oyster fork (pair), small cheese scoop, fruit fork, celluloid shell bladed fish knife (pair), fruit fork (pair).

Condition: signs of age, use and loosing of the handle bindings.