Set of Serving Cutlery, 1895.

This charming set of serving utensil is composed of five pieces that come in its original mahogany box. It dates from 1895 and has survived to our days in excellent condition. The utensils are made of silvery metal, probably alpaca, and the handles are made of mother-of-pearl. The metal looks shiny and polished as if the utensils had never been used and the mother-of-pearl handles are wonderfully white, with no traces of stains or worn. The five pieces come into a smart solid mahogany box, also very well preserved and inside lined with luxurious golden velvet and satin of the same color.The five utensils are decorated by hand with nice engravings adorning the metal. The engravings show a repeated motive consisting in a schematic design of a vase surrounded by flowery climbing plants. It is a lovely and elegant motive whose performance reveals the hand of a skilful artist. All the pieces have a series of marks stamped in the metal, and each one also bears a stylish R: the first letter of the just-married couple the present was given to. The set is lovely and its excellent condition turns it into a very interesting item.The box where the utensils are stored is in magnificent condition too, with its mahogany wood boasting its deep reddish color under a warm and shiny finish. At the top we can see a brass shield embedded in the wood, with an inscription indicating the name of the givers, Mr. And Mrs. Gregson, and the receivers, a couple whose name has been partially erased. We can also read the motive for the present: A memento of affection on the celebration of their marriage, and the year when the ceremony took place, 1895.Measurements: Box: 250 x 230 x 40 mm. Utensils (left to right): Fork: 170 mm. Square spoon: 140 mm. Round Spoon 1: 190 mm. Round Spoon 2: 170 mm. Knife: 180 mm.