In 19th century France, sterling silver flatware was a traditional wedding gift. Often purchased in parts, the teaspoon or small dessert spoon or coffee spoon was typically made in .950/1000 pure silver or perhaps .800/1000 pure silver (more sturdy for small utensils like these or sewing items, etc), and since it is considered a dessert spoon, usually coated in a generous layer of 18k gold, and called "vermeil". Also traditional, French flatware is sold in multiples of 6 rather than 8 as we're used to in USA silver. This is a beautifully boxed set of 6 such spoons. The box, fine wood with brass stringing is from Napoleon III era, c.1850-70s. I have shown the goldsmiths' or silversmith's mark and the set is by Philippe Berthier who worked in Paris with his own mark between 1841-1851, so we'll say they're mid-1800s.
Very good to excellent for age and type. These are stunningly beautiful and seem not to have been used much, if at all. The 18k coating is well-retained and the spoons are heavy (for teaspoons) and substantial. Patterns were not named. Silversmiths were, and the strict controls of precious metals in France is guaranteed with the control marks. Minerve #1 is the finest, at .950/1000 pure silver. The vermeil, or gold layered pieces require a thicker layering of 18k gold than any other Nation, as well. I had to have a fork re-gilded years ago for a customer - just the gold on tines had worn away, and the cost for the single fork was over $120 for the gold. Full measurements are noted on the photos.
