An elegant Antique Sterling Silver tea strainer, 
the bowl formed as a stylised shell and finely executed 
in intricate openwork piercing,
composed of flowing foliate scrolls radiating in panels – 
often described as “feathered” or “shell-pierced” work, 
a highly skilled decorative technique of early XIXc. - circa 1825  
 
The refined handle, of slender fiddle pattern, is engraved with a delicate armorial crest, 
adding a note of aristocratic provenance and personalisation.
 
The reverse retains hallmarks, confirming sterling standard & French assay
 
Tea strainers of this form, particularly those with such elaborate 
hand-pierced decoration, are increasingly scarce,
as their fragile construction often led to loss or damage over time. 
 
The combination of sculptural design, fine craftsmanship, and engraved crest 
renders this a rare and desirable collector’s piece of antique French silver.
 
Total weight: 58.6gr. 
Length: 20cm