Sterling silver pre-revolutionary ladle - Rarity (1) - .950 silver - France - 1781-1789

French silverware of the 18th century has become an undeniable rarity, since silver pieces were successively melted down and recast in the post-Louis XVI era, succeeded by the nobility and the bourgeoisie, and finally by the French Revolution, which melted nearly 60 tons of the silver seized in less than a year. Pre-revolutionary solid silver ladle with period hallmarks: Master silversmith's hallmark, composed of a crowned lily flower above the initials of the names and surnames (C L) , encircled by a different symbol specific to each master silversmith. On either side of the lily flower is a small dot called a remedy seed. Paris customs hallmark, probably 1781 to 1783 Discharge/farmer general’s hallmark, probably 1783/1789 or 1786/1789. Community hallmark or warranty hallmark in the form of letters topped with a crown. In use, starting in the late 15th century, these letters guaranteed the item’s silver grade and were changed each year in alphabetical order. Beautifully well-preserved condition given its age, some age-related wear, scratches and dents. See the detailed photos to form your own impression. Length: 37 cm Width: 9. 5 cm Weight: 280 grams Careful shipping with signature on receipt.