Tureen (2) - Fine Dining Set - Alpaca Silver-plated - Louis XV Craftsmanship

Exceptional fine dining set, comprising a tureen (or vegetable tureen) with its lid and a matching serving tray. This set perfectly combines the sumptuousness of classic silverware with impeccable functionality, ideal both as a centerpiece in an elegant dining room and as a complement to a high-end display cabinet.
-Origin: France
-Style: Rococo / Louis XV. The design is distinguished by its rounded shapes, the dynamism of its decorated handles, and the legs adorned with vegetal scrolls.
-Period: First half of the 20th century (circa 1880-1920).
-Material and Technique
The set is made of silver-plated alpaca (German silver or Maillechort in France) using high-quality electroplating, which gives it the deep shine, patina, and visual texture identical to solid silver, but with far superior structural strength.
-Ornamentation and Design Details
The set stands out for the refined sculptural work in its applied elements:
*The Tureen: It features a clean, mirror-polished body that contrasts beautifully with its four claw feet, profusely decorated with chiseled acanthus leaves that extend towards the body. The side handles display an organic, intertwined design that is both grippy and beautiful. The lid, with its stepped profile, culminates in an exquisite knob shaped like a fruit (pumpkin or pomegranate) on a bed of detailed leaves.
*The Tray: It follows an elegant line with a molded rim featuring a sinuous contour and lobed corners, specifically designed to frame the tureen and catch any splashes with absolute distinction.
-Measurements:
1. Tureen:
*Total height (to the knob): 20 cm
*Handle to handle: 27 cm
*Lid diameter: 19.8 cm
*Turn diameter: 19 cm
*Distance between legs: 13 cm
*Handle dimensions: 6.5 cm wide x 5 cm high
*Leg height: 7.5 cm
2. Serving Tray:
*Length: 34.5 cm
*Width: 27.5 cm
-Marks and Authenticity Marks
The pieces bear their corresponding period markings that guarantee their manufacture:
*On the tureen: It features the engraved "ALPACA" mark hidden behind one of its ornate legs. On another of the rear legs, the number "3" is cut out, which usually refers to the workshop's mold serial number.
*On the tray: On the reverse of one of its corners, the inscription "ALPACA" is visible, accompanied by hallmarks or silversmith's marks from the period, now partially undecipherable due to the polishing common in antique silverware.
Condition
*The set is in good antique condition, consistent with its age and the photographs. It retains an impeccable mirror-like shine, and the silver plating is very well preserved. As expected signs of age and careful use, there are slight cleaning scratches and two small dents on the bottom of the tureen, marked with yellow arrows.
Versatility
Although originally designed as a tureen or vegetable dish for table service, today it is an extraordinarily versatile piece:
*Centerpiece: It can be used without the lid to hold elegant floral arrangements or potpourri.
*Decorative element: It graces any sideboard, entryway console, or display cabinet in classic, rustic chic, or high-end living rooms.
*Gourmet service: It's perfectly functional for keeping broths, stews, or punches warm at formal dinners and special events.
Registered shipping with tracking number and/or insurance