Antique Belle Epoque era French sterling silver and cut crystal claret jug. The crystal body decorated with wheel cut spiral fluting mounted with ornate sterling silver collar, topped by duck-bill shaped hinged lid and scroll form handle. Resting on sterling rocaille base. Fully hallmarked with the French Minerve 1st standard mark, in use from 1838, which guaranteed the finest quality silver of .950/1000 purity (95% silver and a higher grade than the standard .925 for sterling). Bearing maker's marks for silversmith Paul Tallois, this mark was in use from 1907 to 1928, his workshop was located at 19 Boulevard de Strasbourg in Paris. Stands 7 7/8" height x 4 7/8" length x 4 18" wide. In overall good antique condition with general wear commensurate with age and use. There are a few small nicks to the high points on the fluting at the front of the jug, no other chips or cracks.