What's in a name? Well, in the case of fine old French sterling silver, names like Puiforcat, Odiot, Biennais, and a few others are synonymous with finest quality, heritage, heirloom, investment. Silversmith marks are for the world renowned House of Puiforcat, Emile Puiforcat and date from. Known for the finest of finery, Puiforcat is one of only a handful of French silversmiths that have attained worldwide name recognition for their long lauded history and reputation for timeless patterns and unrivaled craftsmanship. Now owned by Hermes, also a name known for opulence. And it is the name behind this fine set of 24 silver handled dessert and entremet (opening course) utensils. A flatware set still complete and in the original presentation box, 2 layers as you see in our images. The set has the small diamond-shaped poincon or punch mark for the firm, PUIFORCAT and specifically Emile Puiforcat era. The set is vintage perhaps rather than antique , early 20th century, and the tiny boar's head in profile is the mark guaranteeing the 2nd standard or .800/1000 pure silver has been used for the handles. Elegant in form and presentation, the set is suitable for gift, or for heirloom collection. Complete, and as you can see, in very fine form.
Very good to excellent condition for age and type. The .800/1000 pure silver, often referred to as European standard, and slightly lower than the highest sterling marks used in France - .950/1000 pure silver. In France, .800 silver is used for utilitarian sets, small items like sewing tools - things that need to hold up well and not dent easily. The higher purer silver items, being near solid silver, are softer and slightly more easily damaged. This set is utilitarian and elegant, both. Our photos show you how beautiful it is. There is a little haze of brass tarnish on the brass portions of the set which can be polished to a high bright gold finish. We left them as they are, the silver professionally polished and there in the original presentation case. Just a mention, a few are slightly separated or opened a fraction of mm at the joint of the handle to the utensil (see photos)All pieces there, fine for a formal or informal table. The forks are 6.5" long and weigh 32 grams each, the knives are 6 3/4" and also weigh 32 grams each. The box is 12" x 8 1/4" and 2.5" tall.