Gorgeous Antique Silver Chimera Asparagus Tongs By Debain~Sold~

A Gorgeous Antique French Silver Chimera Decorated Asparagus Tongs by Alphonse DEBAIN.

This model was called a ‘Main Pince’ (Hand Tongs) or Silver Asparagus Tongs and was created by Maitre Orfèvre Alphonse DEBAIN in Paris – He became quite known for his service items and Art Nouveau inspired decors and specialized in this particular tongs model (the ‘Main Pince’), which he created for the ‘Exposition Universelle De Paris’ in 1889.

His work was really exquisite and you will see quite a few of his pieces in our collection.

This Antique Silver Tongs has a beautiful ‘Repoussé’ detailing with an incredible Chimera Head (Mythical Beast) decorating its center. The gorgeous cutaway work shows in great details spreads of wild plants and flowers.

It fits perfectly in the hand and is in great condition with the spring located in the hinged joint still working perfectly. Though it is meant to serve Asparagus it may also be used as a bread or pastry server.
An amazing piece!

The Hallmark is Minerve 1 -1st title (950/1000)- Hence 1838 to 1919 – Paris

The Makers Mark is for Alphonse DEBAIN. Alphonse DEBAIN was the son of Alphonse Edouard DEBAIN.
His Mark was registered on March 19th 1883 – It was cancelled (biffé) on March 8th 1911. This piece is a gorgeous example of his work.

H: 4.35"W: 3.95"Reference number: CC-144