Magnificent antique Belle Epoque era French sterling silver compote tazza or footed centerpiece. Masterfully crafted from the highest quality French sterling silver made for the firm of prominent Parisian silversmith Leon Lapar. Decorated with embossed scalloped sea shells and stylized acanthus, embellished with a charming fish scale pattern to the corners, framing openwork vignettes of pierced / reticulated lattice. The center well monogrammed with engraved interlaced initials RC or CR in elegant script. Resting on four casted feet topped by a palmette or shell detail. Finished in gold vermeil.
Hallmarked with the French Minerve 1st standard mark used from 1838, which depicts the goddess Minerva with a number 1 beside her to denote a silver content of 950/1000 (95% silver and a higher finesse than .925 sterling). Bearing makers marks for Limousin & Souche, active from 1905-1925 at 76 rue des Archives in Paris. Measures 10 1/4" square x 1 3/8" height. Weighs 610.5 grams. In good condition with general wear commensurate with use and some light surface scratches to the center.