Menümesser-Set (26) - Horn, Kohlenstoffstahl - Finituren in Silber

Hier eine professionelle, präzise Übersetzung mit elegantem Ton, ideal für eine internationale Auktionbeschreibung oder für hochkarätige Sammler.

Englische Übersetzung
Prestigious and pristine formal table service for 12 people, datable between the late 19th and early 20th century (height of the Belle Époque / Art Nouveau era). This lot, of excellent craftsmanship and high collector relevance, stands out for its absolute completeness: it comprises 26 pieces in total, entirely coordinated and preserved inside their three original period boxes, featuring their original velvet interiors.

The service is structured as follows:

Set of 24 Table Knives (housed in two original cases of 12):
The manufacturer or high-end retailer of origin is stamped on the blades: "C. Drouard - Mantes" (France). The set offers a rare formal configuration in two sizes:

12 Large Knives (Dinner): Total length 25.5 cm (Blade: 13.5 cm).

12 Small Knives (Appetizer/Dessert/Fruit): Total length 20.0 cm (Blade: 10.5 cm).

The handles are crafted from prized polished natural horn, characterized by unique flamed veining. As shown in the photographic documentation, please note that a single knife features a superficial hairline crack on the horn handle; this characteristic does not compromise the structural stability of the blade in any way, but rather constitutes a noble and natural testament to time, consistent with an authentic organic set that is over a century old.

The decorative Art Nouveau ferrule collars are finely embossed with floral motifs. Each individual blade bears the oval guarantee hallmark "VIROLE ARGENT" on the opposite heel, certifying that the ferrules are made of silver. The carbon steel blades retain their original period patina and display slight natural oxidation spots, further confirming their absolute historical integrity.

Serving Set (2 pieces in their original case):
Coordinating large serving spoon and carving fork, measuring an impressive 28.5 cm in length. Inside the lid, they bear the original label of the renowned "Orfèvrerie d'Art Miele - Liège" (Rue de l'Université), a manufacturer of excellence active between Paris and Belgium.

The upper sections are finely carved from natural blonde horn. For maximum transparency, we note minor, slight signs of age (physiological shrinkage of the original period internal mastic) where the horn section meets the metal shaft—a common and entirely normal detail for structured serving cutlery of this period. The handles feature rich floral chasing and are stamped with a strict continental double-marking system:

The "800" hallmark, certifying the purity grade of the silver used.

The square assay hallmark with the numeral "8", a control mark indicating the exact grams of pure silver leaf used for the plating of each individual hollow handle (manche fourré).

Diagnostics and Authenticity:
The handles and horn components have been subjected to an expert assessment using a UV lamp (Wood's light). As demonstrated by the attached images, the material reacts with the characteristic, bright blue-opalescent and milky-white autofluorescence typical of natural keratin. This scientific examination categorically rules out the use of early plastics or synthetics (such as Bakelite, Galalith, or resins), guaranteeing the exceptionally high collector profile and organic authenticity of the components.

An outstanding service, rarely found on the market in such a completely original state, perfect for enhancing collections of European silverware or prestigious settings of fine antique flatware.

Shipping Policy:
Please note that shipments to island destinations are strictly limited to the Italian national territory (Sicily, Sardinia, and smaller Italian islands). No shipments will be made to islands located outside the Italian national territory.