An exquisite Belle Epoque era antique French sterling silver ladle spoon for serving cream or sauce. Richly decorated in an ornate Louis XVI/ Rococo motif of foliage, ribbon bows and musical instruments. Gold vermeil finish. Monogrammed with interlaced initials ARP or APR. Hallmarked of the French Minerve 1st standard mark, in use from 1838. This mark guaranteed the finest quality French silver of .950/1000 (95% silver and a higher grade of finesse than the standard .925 for sterling). Maker's marks for silversmith Armand Gross, active circa 1893, workshop was located at 156 rue du Faubourg-Saint-Martin, Paris. In good antique condition with general wear commensurate with use and age. Measure 9 3/4" length x 2 7/8" wide. Weighs 81.6 grams.