Antique Napoleon III to Belle Epoque era French sterling silver 24pc dinner or table knife set with armorial crests. A complete service for twelve in the 9 7/8" dinner size and medium 8" knives for luncheon/entremet or dessert. Patterned with elegant styling with strapping and scrolling accents, tipped with a scalloped shell motif. Each handle with armorial heraldic crests. Detailing two heraldic coat of arms under a knight's helmet flanked by wings, likely symbolizing the marriage/celebration of the union of noble families. Each with steel blades, some are marked Paris. A gorgeous set, housed in a presentation box measuring 12" x 10 7/8". Each handle is hallmarked with the French Minerva 1st standard hallmark indicating .950/1000 silver (95% pure silver and higher than .925 sterling). Bearing maker's marks of silversmiths Paillard Freres, active 1868-1888 at 31 rue Chapon, Paris. In overall good antique condition with general wear. Some typical dimpling to the handles commensurate with age and use, wear/rubbing on some coat of arms.