Stunning antique French sterling silver asparagus server by Puiforcat. In an extremely rare Renaissance pattern and richly decorated with ornate engraving and finely modeled handle. Decorated with a meticulously detailed figure of a caryatid female, terminating to a mythological dolphin at the service end. The curved blade embellished with intricate engraved foliage and pierce-work. Measures 9 1/2" length x 3 5/8" width. Weighs 132.1 grams. Fully hallmarked with the French Minerve 1st standard mark, which depicts the goddess Minerva with a number 1 beside her indicating a silver content of .950/1000 silver (95% pure silver and a higher than .925 sterling). Bearing maker's mark for renowned Parisian silversmith Emile PUIFORCAT, who commenced trading in 1857. In overall good antique condition with general wear