Antique French Sterling Silver Dessert Server Set – Gaston Bouttenot, Late 1800s – Ornate Pierced & Engraved Design, Rafin-Chaffin Nîmes Box
$1,495.00
An exceptional antique French sterling silver fish serving set designed by the renowned silversmith Gaston Bouttenot in the late 19th century. This exquisite pair exemplifies the Aesthetic and Rococo Revival elegance of the Belle Époque period, showcasing Bouttenot’s masterful combination of intricate hand-pierced and engraved decoration.
Each piece displays deeply chased acanthus scrolls, floral basket engraving, and graceful repoussé ornamentation along the handles. The knife features a beautifully shaped, pierced blade with stylized foliage, while the serving trowel bears an elaborate basket-and-floral motif engraved in fine detail.
The set is housed in its original fitted retail box, marked “Rafin-Chaffin, Nîmes”, a distinguished French retailer of luxury silver and jewelry.
Details:
• Maker: Gaston Bouttenot (French silversmith, active late 1800s)
• Retailer: Rafin-Chaffin, Nîmes, France
• Date: Circa 1880–1890
• Material: Solid French sterling silver (.950 fineness)
• Design: Pierced and engraved floral scrollwork, acanthus handles
• Length:
• Fish knife – approx. 10 in.
• Fish server – approx. 9 in.
• Monogram: None
• Condition: Excellent antique condition; crisp detailing, mirror finish, minor surface wear consistent with age; box shows gentle age wear
• Hallmarks: French Minerva head (.950 silver standard) and maker’s mark for Gaston Bouttenot (see photos)
This museum-quality French fish service represents the pinnacle of 19th-century silver artistry — a breathtaking piece for collectors, fine dining connoisseurs, or those seeking an heirloom gift steeped in French elegance.
FREE SHIPPING ON ALL ORDERS OF $35 OR MORE!
Returns & Refunds:
I gladly accept returns within 30 days. Buyers are responsible for return shipping costs unless the item is defective or incorrect. If the item is returned for personal preference (not due to damage or error), I will refund the purchase price minus the original shipping cost.
If your order included a free silver polish sample, please return it unopened with your item to receive a full refund. A $5 deduction will apply if the sample is not returned.
Shipping from United States
Processing time
3-5 business days
Estimated shipping times
- North America : 3 - 5 business days
I'll do my best to meet these shipping estimates, but can't guarantee them. Actual delivery time will depend on the shipping method you choose.
Customs and import taxes
Buyers are responsible for any customs and import taxes that may apply. I'm not responsible for delays due to customs.
Payment Options
Returns & Exchanges
I gladly accept returns and exchanges
Just contact me within: 21 days of delivery
Ship items back to me within: 30 days of delivery
I don't accept cancellations
But please contact me if you have any problems with your order.
The following items can't be returned or exchanged
Because of the nature of these items, unless they arrive damaged or defective, I can't accept returns for:
- Custom or personalized orders
Conditions of return
Buyers are responsible for return shipping costs. If the item is not returned in its original condition, the buyer is responsible for any loss in value.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is your return policy?
All merchandise is refundable within 30 days of shipping. Returns (due to no fault of As You Like It Silver Shop) on credit card orders of $500 and over are subject to a 15% restocking fee. Returns on cash or check orders of $500 or more are subject to a 10% restocking fee.