Fabulous & rare antique French Napoleon III era sterling silver legumier, "ecuelle" or serving dish, unique armorial style engraved crest with crown and exquisite figural side handles with detailed mascarons or grotesques! A very interesting and unique piece, the bowl itself has a 7" diameter but a large 12" width with those gorgeous handles! Thick, heavy old French silver and rare with the crown topped heraldry! The base has two hallmarks, both definitely French (you can see the rectangular outline of the Minerva or Michel-Ange mark and a distinct diamond shaped lozenge where the maker/silversmith mark is) but they've been scratched out. Why that would have been done is a mystery but it's French for sure. A stunning piece, simple enough to fit into an existing fine silver service but unique enough to stand out and attract compliments!
Excellent condition. No dents, damage or repairs to note. The hallmarks, as mentioned above, have scratches over them as if someone tried to remove them. See pictures for measurements.
