Elegant & rare antique French PUIFORCAT (Hermes) sterling silver 71pc flatware set, a 6pc table setting for twelve in an ornate Louis XV style pattern and all in wonderful condition! French sterling silver always impressive, both in weight but also the elaborate and sophisticated patterns. All forks & spoons bear the French Minerve or Minerva hallmark, the tiny number "1" within those marks means they're in .950 silver (95% pure so a higher standard that the .925 for "sterling" silver). And, of course, the silversmith marks are for the House of Puiforcat, Emile Puiforcat to be exact.
Puiforcat - One of a very tight circle of the most honored names in French sterling silver, and for all good reason. The company is now owned by HERMES (since 1990s), and has a long and lauded history that stands well in your behalf in acquisition and enjoyment of your investment in a set like this one. We get so many questions about why French sterling flatware brings such a premium price, and we can only offer it in its own defense - it is simply superior in all ways. Heavier by nearly double, the pieces last as heirlooms and do not dent, damage or bend easily. The elegant patterns are timeless, truly. And the artistry is further enhanced by the rigorous attention to the detail in the finished pieces - no roughness, no fuzziness to the crisp detail. Magical in the hand, there are many reasons why these are considered investment quality. A stunning & comprehensive set!
Very good to excellent condition! As is obvious, one of the smaller knives has gone missing though I might be able to find a similar piece to replace and complete the 12pc if you wish. I can't promise but can look through what we have. A few of the knives have small age/drying splits to the wood portions, the blades appear to be stainless so could possibly be replacements/restorations to the earlier handles but all are solid (no looseness, etc.). Some very light, faint surface marks on the sterling flatware, indicative of age and light use but, as you can see, they're in as near pristine condition as can be. See pictures for all individual measurements and weights.
