Antique Belle Époque era French sterling silver entremet or luncheon knife service for 12. Together with a butter knife and cheese knife set, both with exquisite engraved steel blades. Richly decorated Louis XVI/Rococo patterned sterling silver handles, featuring sumptuous rocailles, scrolling foliate and florals. A gorgeous set. The knives feature steel blades stamped Paris.
Handles are hallmarked with the French Minerve 1st standard mark, which depicts the goddess Minerva with a number 1 beside her to denote a silver content of 950/1000 (of 95% pure silver and a higher finesse than .925 sterling). Maker's marks for silversmiths Louis Ravinet & Charles d'Enfert, active 1891-1912, located at 83 rue du Temple, Paris.
In very good condition with general wear. Blades are original and of old steel, having patina/darkening from age. Housed within the original fitted presentation box with cream satin and red velvet lining. Retailed by Monsieur Delahalle ( a retailer of jewelry, fine silver and plated ware) of 52 rue de la République, Rouen.
Knives measure 8 3/8". Butter knife is 8 1/8", Cheese knife measures 8" length. Box measures 13 1/8" x 11 x 1 7/8" height.