Serving utensil (3) - .950 silver - 1850-1900 - Carving Set Poultry Clam

French Silver-Handled Carving Set with Poultry Clamp in Original Case – Minerva 1st Standard (.950) – 19th Century

An elegant and increasingly scarce 19th-century French carving set, comprising three original pieces: a carving knife, carving fork and an ingenious poultry clamp (also known as a turkey or game holder), presented in its original fitted presentation case.

The handles are crafted in French silver, each bearing the Minerva 1st Standard hallmark (.950 silver), guaranteeing the highest French silver purity. The maker's mark is present but remains difficult to decipher. As was customary for luxury carving sets of this period, the silver handles are filled with resin/pitch for strength and balance, while the functional parts are made from forged steel to ensure excellent cutting performance.

The decorative handles display refined Louis XVI-inspired ornamentation, featuring elegant laurel garlands, ribbon motifs and classical fluted panels, reflecting the sophisticated taste of late 19th-century French silversmithing.

The unusual poultry clamp is designed to securely grip the leg of a turkey, chicken, duck or other roast, allowing the carver to hold the meat firmly while slicing with the matching knife and fork. Such complete sets were intended for formal dining and festive occasions and are now sought after by collectors of antique French silver and fine tableware.

This lot is offered as an antique historical object and collectible, not as an investment in silver weight.

Dimensions

Poultry clamp: approx. 21 cm
Carving fork: approx. 28 cm
Carving knife: approx. 31.5 cm

Condition
Good antique condition overall. The silver handles remain attractive with a fine patina. The steel blade and fork show age-related oxidation, staining and surface wear consistent with over a century of careful use. The original fitted case is included and shows expected wear and ageing. Please study the photographs carefully, as they form an integral part of the description.

Period
France, 19th century (circa 1880–1900).

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