Lovely Art Nouveau Silver Nut Cracker By Coignet~Sold~

Lovely Art Nouveau Antique French Silver Nut Cracker by Louis COIGNET…
Art Nouveau was an expression that swept through the decorative arts as well as architecture and applied arts towards the end of the 19th century.
Recognizing the importance of our natural surroundings, Art Nouveau incorporated natural forms, flowers and plants into all expressions of art.

The Silver handles of our lovely reversible Nut Cracker show a beautiful display of blooming irises on each side.
The metal upper part (the nut cracking part) is gold coated and ridged lightly with a delicate flower design showing above and under and is fixed with silver coated iron studs.
The upper part shows very light signs of wear while the handles are intact.

This lovely piece comes in its original presentation which is in great condition!

The Hallmark is ‘Minerve’ 1 -1st title – 1838 -1919– Paris

The Makers Mark is for ‘Maître Orfèvre’ Louis COIGNET and shows and L and a C with a crossed carving fork and knife set.
He was active between 1889 and 1893.
His address was listed as 14 rue Barbette in the 3rd arrondissement, very close to the Rue Vieille du Temple in the Marais district of Paris.

H: 6.37"Reference number: SF-135