Delheid Frères - Cutlery set (13) - .800 silver

A rare 13-piece silver ice cream serving set by Delheid Frères, Brussels, dating to circa 1880.
The set comprises twelve individual ice cream spoons and one large serving spoon, all made entirely of 800/1000 solid silver.
The bowls of the individual spoons and the large serving spoon were gilt on both sides. The original gilding remains clearly visible, although in some areas it shows natural partial wear consistent with the age and use of the set, allowing the silver surface beneath to show through.
The handles have a profiled, tapering form, widening towards their ends, and are richly decorated on both sides with cast classical ornament including campanula motifs, laurel leaves and acanthus foliage. Laurel wreaths and ribbon motifs frame smooth cartouches engraved with the intertwined monogram “COL”.
The large serving spoon repeats the same decorative scheme and forms the centrepiece of the set.
Each element bears the 800 silver standard and the characteristic Delheid Frères maker’s mark, identifying the renowned Brussels silversmith.
The set is preserved in its original fitted presentation case, covered in dark blue embossed paper with gilt ornamental borders and fitted with brass locks. The interior is lined with deep blue plush and white silk.
Provenance: from a private family collection, where the set has been preserved for many years.
Total silver weight: 415 g.
Dimensions: serving spoon 23 cm; individual ice cream spoons 14 cm.
Condition: very good antique condition. The silver shows normal age-related surface wear and patination. The original gilding of the bowls is preserved but shows partial wear in some areas, consistent with the age of the set. The original fitted case also shows natural signs of age and use.
The set is accompanied by professional documentation confirming its maker, dating, silver standard, condition and provenance.