A FRENCH SILVER PLATED DUCK PRESS by CAILAR, BAYARD & CIE, PARIS, FRANCE, CIRCA. EARLY 20TH CENTURY, on an oblong base, raised on four flared elephant feet with stylised tusked heads, the front and back of the press are tinged and opens to reveal a removable pot with strainer, fitted with a spout, the press is a flat disk driven by a turn screw with bar handle. With makers marks to the base and hallmarks stamped to the body, numbered '69914'.
Provenance: Acquired directly from The Oak Room Bar, Plaza Hotel, Manhattan, NYC, for the sum of $25,000, 1982.
Note: With famous performers and guests, The Oak Room Bar has been a meeting place for political meetings and singers such as Josephine Baker, Marlene Dietrich and Liza Minnelli.
The duck press was invented in France during the 1800's by a Chef called Mechenet.