Paris, C. 1883 – Silver-gilt And Cut Crystal Caster (shaker) By Alfred Lecorazet

Paris, c. 1883 – Silver-Gilt and Cut Crystal Caster by Alfred LECORAZET
Elegant baluster-shaped caster in finely cut crystal, mounted with 950/1000 sterling silver plated with gold (vermeil).
The body is encircled by a plain silver band, while the upper section features a frieze of flattened pearls. The bowl is adorned with a delicate crosscut pattern. The neck is fitted with a sterling silver mount resting on a solid crystal ring, supporting the pierced lid with 25 holes, finely decorated with a waterleaf frieze and gilded both inside and out. The crystal base, embellished with a star-cut design, is set into a gilt silver stand adorned with a matching waterleaf frieze.

All parts bear the French Minerva 1st standard hallmark, certifying a silver content of 950/1000, the highest legal standard of the period, along with the maker’s mark.

Hallmarks
•    Minerva 1st standard (950/1000 sterling silver)
•    Maker’s mark: AL with a cockerel for Alfred LECORAZET

Dimensions
•    Height: 13.5 cm
•    Diameter (widest point): 8 cm

Gross weight: 385 g

Condition report
Very good condition, no flaws in the crystal, no dents or deformations in the silver. Minor surface scratches and some natural wear to the gilding, consistent with age.

Remarkable state of preservation for a piece of 142 years, still retaining its original rich gilding. Exceptional craftsmanship, both in the thick, expertly cut crystal and the finely worked silver mount. Notably, the mount is made of 950/1000 sterling silver, whereas silver-gilt pieces from this period were more commonly crafted in 800/1000 silver.

Alfred LECORAZET
Master silversmith based at 32 rue Saint-Marc, Paris, registered in 1883. His maker’s mark appears on high-quality tableware with classical yet elegant lines, as well as on evening purses in silver, sometimes set with gemstones.