Odiot For Hénin: Silver & Vermeil Desk Set, Napoleon Model. St. Empire. Magnifying Glass

Magnificent Empire-style silver-gilt magnifying glass and letter opener.

The set is of the "Napoleon" model, still manufactured by the famous Odiot firm.
The filled silver-gilt handles are decorated with palmettes, cornucopias, and a caduceus. A shield is numbered LL (?).

The handle of the magnifying glass is connected to the lens by two superb winged women supporting the upper part.
The magnifying glass itself is held in place by a ring decorated with water leaves.

The carved blade of the letter opener is triangular in shape and very tapered. It is probably later.

The set comes in its original case inscribed "Hénin orfèvre depuis 1855".

Both pieces are hallmarked:
. Minerva 1st grade from before 1973 for the 950/°° silver.

Goldsmith's hallmark: H & Cie with a rose branch and a star for Hénin et Compagnie, active from 1872 to 1974

The goldsmith who made this magnifying glass was Hénin et Compagnie, but the latter was a subcontractor of Odiot, along with other prestigious goldsmiths such as Granvigne and Puiforcat.

This set is a rare, superb and very elegant model created in homage to the First Empire by one of the great French goldsmiths.

Magnifying glass:
19 cm long
8.4 cm in diameter

170.3 grams

Letter opener:
21.5 cm long

32.50 grams

Very good condition. Minor scratches from use.

Hand-delivered in Paris or shipped by insured Colissimo.
France: €15
Europe: €20
Worldwide: €35