Gorgeous antique French Belle Epoque era .950 sterling silver dessert serving set. Comprising of a strawberry spoon and sugar sifter spoon with exquisite intricately pierced floral form bowl. The handles feature Art Nouveau miris flowers set among sinuous swirling leaves and stems. Engraved monogram appears to be interlaced initials IO or OI. Both pieces are hallmarked with the French Minerve 1st standard mark, which guaranteed the finest quality French sterling silver of .950/1000 purity in use from 1838 (95% silver and a higher grade than the standard .925 for sterling). Maker's mark for Parisian silversmith Charles Tirbour, active from 1897 at 8 rue des Haudriette, Paris. In overall good antique condition with general wear commensurate with age and use. Housed in the original presentation box.<P>
Dimensions:<P>
The strawberry spoon measures 9 1/2" length x 3 5/8" wide bowl. The sugar sifter is 8 5/8" length x 2 1/2" wide bowl. Total silver weight is 127.6 grams. The box measures 11 1/4" x 6 7/8" x 2" height.