An exceptional French sterling silver & gold vermeil 36-piece dessert or luncheon flatware set by Odiot-Boulenger. The set comprises of 12 forks, 12 spoons, and 12 knives. All richly decorated in Louis XVI styling finished in 18k gold vermeil. The knives with fully hallmarked sterling silver blades, also finished in gold vermeil. The handles are decorated with fluting, embellished with acanthus and sea shell motifs. The back of the service ends with berries and leaves. Each handle is engraved with a coat of arms. The coat of arms is that of the Fould family. The Fould family were successful bankers and politicians. Below is the family motto 'Aide toi, Dieu t'aidera', a French proverb exclaimed by Joan of Arc during her incarceration in Rouen, which means: Help yourself, and God will help you. The pattern on this set is similar to the prestigious Louveciennes pattern by Odiot. Each piece 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 for Odiot-Boulenger. This mark was only in use from 1906 to 1956, when the silver firm of Boulenger & Cie bought Odiot, and helps us date the set to within this time frame. Condition is very good with some surface scratches and general signs of use, the vermeil (18k gold plated silver) is well preserved on this vintage set. Spoons measure 7 5/8", Forks are 7 1/2", Knives measure 8 1/8" length. Total weight: 2159 grams