French Royal Warrant Holder Brand Bespoke Sterling Silver Gilt Natural Mother of Pearl 12-Piece Boxed Table Knife Set

French Royal Warrant Holder Brand Touron Bespoke Sterling Silver Gilt Natural Mother of Pearl Hand-Carved Bas-Relief Fox Head Table Knife Set (Full Set of 12 with Original Box) In 19th-century Paris, Touron represented the pinnacle of luxury and craftsmanship, a legendary workshop even awarded the distinction of "Royal Warrant Holder for Cutlery Artisans." During the Second French Empire (Napoleonic III), Touron crafted bespoke, opulent gold and silverware for royalty and esteemed estates. The clear Touron brand inscription on the blade serves as a testament to this era of French romance and exquisite luxury. The most captivating detail of this set is the gilt collar connecting the blade and handle, meticulously sculpted in a challenging high-relief technique to form a lifelike, agile fox head. Its sharp, defined ears, deep-set eyes, and intricate snout seamlessly blend with the scrollwork and bead embellishments characteristic of the Neo-Rococo style. This is not merely an exercise in miniature artistry but a deep reflection of the hunting culture and rustic aesthetic cherished by 19th-century European nobility. Blade Material: Struck with the French "First Standard Minerva (Minerve) Sterling Silver Mark" (in use since 1838) and the artisan's lozenge mark. To protect against fruit acids and convey prestige, the entire blade features Vermeil (heavy gold plating over 950 sterling silver) craftsmanship, offering a warm luster and a distinguished presence. Handle Material: Carefully selected Natural Mother of Pearl, boasting a substantial feel and captivating iridescent glow. The handle is further distinguished by a delicate bespoke mark, indicating it is a custom piece from a noble estate. Origin and Period: Paris, France, circa 1860–1890 (Napoleonic III / Second Empire to late 19th Century) Master Craftsman: Parisot-Touron (Royal Warrant Holder for Cutlery Artisans) Primary Materials: 950 Sterling Silver Gilt (Vermeil), Natural Mother of Pearl Hallmarks: First Standard Minerva Sterling Silver Mark (Minerve), Artisan's Lozenge Mark, Touron Inscription Individual Knife Dimensions: Approximately 19.6 cm in length (Standard fruit knife / dessert knife) Collection Quantity: Complete set of 12 knives, offered as a complete collection with its original period box. In good condition and functional for use, but as with all antique items, there may be signs of historical wear. Please consider this before purchasing.