Centrepiece - .950 silver

Rare pair of table cardholders in solid silver made by the prestigious house Labat & Pugibet, active in Paris between 1877 and 1897 and supplier to the famous establishment 'L’Escalier de Cristal.' Their maker's mark L&P with a shoemaker's awl is clearly visible here, accompanied by the assay mark with the First Class Minerva (950/1000) as well as other guarantee and control marks attesting to their authenticity.

Visible stamps on the one with two angels:
L&P goldsmith's hallmark
Minerve silver 950
six-pointed star
-VD with a piece of tableware.

Visible punches on the one with the well:
-VD with a piece of tableware.
six-pointed star
punch with chevrons
- A punch mark on the card holder's attachment, and a second on the top, both not deciphered.

The cardholders were part of the prestige accessories displayed on the grand bourgeois and aristocratic tables of the 19th century. They were used to indicate guests' seats or to present a welcoming message, a testament to the host's refinement and the culture of 'French service.' Their presence was a sign of distinction and mastery of the social codes of entertaining.

Each cardholder features a finely chiseled sculptural decoration.
One depicts two cherubs placed on a branch, with a theatrical and delicate ambiance.
The other depicts a well scene, likely referencing decorative pastoral scenes that were very popular during the Belle Époque.

High-quality Parisian work, with preserved antique patina, rare original pieces on the market.

Dimensions :
Angel cherub card holder: height 6.4 cm, width 3.4 cm, depth 3.1 cm
- Card holder in well: height 6 cm, width 3.5 cm, depth 3.1 cm
Total weight: 33.3 g

Carefully packaged shipment, insured shipping with tracking.