12 Setting Fruit Knives and Forks, Crested and Boxed.

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$132.00

Quantity Available: 1

This has once been a very impressive set of fruit knives and forks (can also be used for entrees or luncheon dishes). The handles are ivory, and the bear the crest of a raised arm with the hand holding a five-pointed star. These came from England, so presumably an English crest. The blades and tines are silver plated. The box contains two trays, each one holding a set of 6 knives and forks. Maker's mark is S. B. P. L. each in a different shield. These would date from mid 19th century. They actually appear to be more like close plate than electroplate, and it seems they may be plated on steel, not nickle. However they are marked EP. There is quite a lot of wear and damage to this set - you can get a passable set of 6 each from it, but some of the blades are wearing along the edges exposing the dark base metal. One knife especially is very worn. The forks are in generally much better condition. The handles have a few minor but visible splits, and there is some stain discolouration on a few of them. Knives are 20 cm long, forks are 17 cm long (8 inches and 6.3/4 inches). Shabby country house chic!