Ernest Compère - Dinner set (7) - Monogramma araldico inciso su ogni singolo pezzo - .950 silver, Vermeil - Mercury Punch

Dinner and dessert flatware set in solid .950 sterling silver and vermeil – coroneted nobiliary monogram – Ernest Compère, Paris (19th Century)

Set of French service and dessert cutlery in solid silver (first title .950), finely worked and entirely coated with an original sumptuous vermeil gilding. The set is an elite commission from the Napoleonic/Third Republic era, as testified by the refined heraldic monogram engraved on each individual piece, surmounted by a French count’s noble crown (characterized by nine points of gold with pearls). The monogram features beautifully interlaced initials (readable as AS / SA).
The service is the work of the celebrated Parisian silversmith Ernest Compère, active with his workshop at 79 Rue Quincampoix in Paris between 1868 and 1888. The pieces bear the artisan’s unmistakable hallmark (the EC initials accompanied by the rabbit symbol).

The cutlery is distinguished by a magnificent high-manufacture decoration: the handles feature a dense, elegant micro-diamond geometric texture (basket or barleycorn motif), framed by modan borderings and terminal medallions that host the crest. The serving spoon is adorned with a sumptuous shell design with a rococo/Regency taste. The cake server blade is entirely engraved with geometrico-floral decorations of extreme delicacy.

Composition of the set (7 pieces):
• 1 Large cake/dessert server 32x6.5 cm
• 1 Large serving spoon (with shell-shaped bowl) 24x8.5 cm
• 1 Sugar tongs with lion paw tips 15x3.2 cm
• 2 Coordinated dessert forks 18x2 cm
• 2 Coordinated dessert spoons 18x3.8 cm

Technical Details and Hallmarks:
• Origin: France (Paris)
• Era: Second half of the 19th century (circa 1870–1878)
• Material: Solid .950 silver (French Title 1) with original vermeil gilding
• Total Weight: 531 grams (all pieces are fully solid silver)
• Hallmarks: Silversmith’s mark Ernest Compère (EC with rabbit); official French guarantee mark for the title (Mercury).
• Condition: Excellent period condition. Stunning original patina, minimal and physiological signs of surface wear due to time that testify to its authenticity and history. The vermeil gilding preserves exceptional brilliance and depth.
A high-class lot, ideal for discerning collectors of heraldic antique silver, investors, or to adorn the most exclusive tables.

NOT SHIPPABLE TO THE UNITED STATES OR TO THE REST OF THE WORLD.