In addition to generations of households, Ercuis his been a well-known and highly respected French manufacturer that has supplied cutlery since the 1860s to embassies and hotels throughout the world. The 12 pieces probably date from the second half of the 20th century, but have been relatively unused. A classic style, the hollow handles of both knives and forks are securely attached to the blades...

This ladle is marked for Koberlin Brothers, an old silverware firm in Saxony founded in 1828, although the ladle probably dates from the first quarter of the 20th century. It is decorated simply with a single thread outlining the curving form, and with the only relief being the monogram AP. The bowl is oval, and gold-washed. It is marked with the Koberlin mark, the German Imperial marks of crescent moon and crown, and 800 fine (in contrast with 925 for sterling) for the silver content...

The fish slice / knife / server as it evolved in the 19th Century took the form of its blade from the body of a headless and tailless fish. John Westervelt's interpretation includes an engraved medallion head inscribed in a roundel on the handle, very likely that of Oceanus, whose body was that of a fish. This piece is decorated by neo-classical motifs – acanthus, dart-and-egg, floral sprays – in engraving, bright-cutting, and engine-turning...