Rare antique French sterling silver military officer, picnic or travel set, etui that includes cup, tumbler or "timbale" with guilloche style machined decoration & "AM"(?) monogram, folding or "pliante" fork & spoon, cork screw, ivory spice (salt & pepper) case, tortoise shell & silver folding knife and all in the original tooled natural leather box or case! The cup, knife , fork & spoon are all hallmarked with the French Minerve or Minerva silver marks, the tiny number "1" within tells us the silver used is .950/1000 pure silver, a luxurious material in the time it was created. The silversmith marks vary so we're not sure if pieces have been replaced or the entire set was a collaboration between different makers. That it survives in as relatively complete a condition as it does is really quite rare, and speaks to its heritage and to many many generations of family who have cherished it over the years since it was made and used. The set was made in Paris, also something affirmed by those silver marks, and it's more than likely it was initially purchased from one of the boutiques that flanked the promenade of the old Palace of Cardinal Richelieu, a gathering place by this time for Napoleon's armies, local dignitaries, and some ladies of the sort that military officers might look for, too, for a little comfort. Prior to this era, the Palais Royal, as the site was known, hosted Royals and dignitaries from around the world, and was not only a site for the finest goods to be had, but also a center of theatre and dining. A long and lauded history, the 'Palais Royal' goods that survive bring a premium for that distinction. I would bet highly this is one, as well.
Very good condition. The necessaire is nearly complete, lacking maybe one of the original contents and, as noted, there may possibly be replacements but all fit in the cup's inner fitting. There are a few small dents or dimpling around the base of the cup, some age/tarnish spots on the knife's stainless steel blade (one of two, the other blade is .800 or nearly sterling silver). The leather outer case is in superb condition, age and materials considered, but the clasp doesn't quite hook securely. Quite surprising that as many original pieces have survived intact and in such magnificent condition. See pictures for individual weights and measurements.
