Franse meester / zilversmid onbekend - Serving utensil (4) - .800 silver - 1900-1910 - Hors d'oeuvre and Mignardise

Offered is a beautiful and completely authentic 4-piece antique French hors-d'oeuvre or mignardises set in the elegant Art Nouveau style, dating from around 1890–1910. These luxurious serving sets were traditionally used in France for the chic presentation of amuse-bouches, fruit, petits fours, or other fine delicacies.
The set is crafted by a recognized French silversmith and is in a beautiful, characterful antique condition. The set is supplied in the original presentation box, lined with velvet and silk (antique case).

Specifications & Materials:

• Handles (Heften): Made of solid French silver of the 800/1000 fineness. The handles are beautifully decorated with typical Art Nouveau reliefs (floral and foliate motifs) and executed in the so-called argent fourré technique (silver exterior with a filled core for a solid weight and stability).
• Serving portions: Made of finely detailed gilded brass (Métal doré). The gilded surface forms a lovely, warm contrast with the silver handles and protected the set at the time from acids in food.
• Hallmarks: The silver handles are officially hallmarked with the French guarantee mark the Boar’s Head (tête de sanglier) for Paris (1838-1973), as well as the official French lozenge-shaped master mark (poinçon de maître) of the silversmith.

Contents of the set (4-piece):

1. Openwork spoon: Ideal for granulated sugar or small mignardises.
2. Serving fork / meat fork: Featuring three characteristic, gracefully cut tines.
3. Candy / amuse-bouche spoon: With a beautifully openwork, symmetrical geometric pattern.
4. Serving knife / scoop: Elegantly engraved with a refined floral motif.

Condition:

In good, original antique condition with normal signs of age and use. The silver and gilding have a beautiful, authentic patina. The original case shows age-related marks (see photos), which contribute to the historical charm of this unique ensemble.
Dimensions: box 20 by 20 cm, cutlery length 17 cm.
Ships well-packaged and traceable or available for pickup.