Stunning 18 piece service of antique 19th century French sterling silver dessert knives by Cardeilhac. Featuring elegant handles carved from solid mother of pearl, luminous with an iridescent sheen displaying magnificent flashes of color. Decorated with an interlaced monogram highlighted in blue, appears to be initials EEC. A charming engraved detail adorns the blades of grape clusters and leaves on a curling vine. The blades are hallmarked for .950 silver. Most knives are crafted with lesser .800 silver or steel blades, so it is a real treat to find a set with blades of a higher finesse of silver. The blades are hallmarked with the French Minerve 1st standard mark, which depicts the goddess Minerva with a number 1 beside her to denote a silver content of 950/1000 (of 95% pure silver and a higher finesse than .925 sterling). Carries the maker's mark and signature for renowned Parisian silversmith Ernest CARDEILHAC, active from 1885 to 1904. The knives measure 7 5/8" length. Weighs 607.7 grams. In overall good antique condition with general wear and surface scratches commensurate with use and age. Housed in the original presentation box, showing wear and age. Box measures 8 1/2" x 7 1/4".5