Skewer - Silver - Hâtelet

Hâtelet / Table Skewer in Solid Silver (Minerva 1st Title) – Caducée Decor by Philippe Berthier – Paris, circa 1850
Description of the piece :
Superb and rare hâtelet (decorative table service skewer) from the Mid-19th Century / Second Empire, entirely in French solid silver.
The top of the skewer features chasing work of remarkable finesse, depicting the caduceus of Hermes / Mercury: a central staff topped with a winged hat, around which two serpents with finely detailed scales intertwine, centered by a flower rosette. This motif, rare and highly graphic, is particularly sought after by collectors of table art and of scientific or mythological objects.
Punctuation and Authentication :
The solid silver stem bears two perfectly clear official French marks:
1. Guarantee Mark: The Minerva head 1st Title (silver purity guaranteed at 950/1000).
2. Master Silversmith Mark: Diamond-shaped mark of the Paris silversmith Philippe Berthier (Initials P and B surrounding a woodcock), registered in Paris from 5 June 1847.
Condition:
Very good overall antique condition. The silver presents a magnificent original patina with a light natural oxidation that superbly highlights the reliefs and the chasing details (scales, wing feathers). The stem is straight and pointed. No loss or restoration.
• Material: Solid Silver
• Title / Purity: 950 / 1000 (Minerva 1st Title)
• Period: Circa 1847 - 1860 (Second Empire)
• Silversmith: Philippe Berthier (Paris)
• Motif: Hermes / Mercury Caduceus / Winged serpents