Fine Austrian Cased Silver Gilt and Painted Enamel Dessert Service

fourth quarter 19th century, by Hermann Ratzersdorfer (1845-1894), Vienna, in the Historizmus taste, including six each dessert knives, l. 8-3/4", forks, l. 8-1/4", and spoons, l. 8-1/2", each with elaborate third standard (.800) silver gilt variant double-faced mascaron mounts and painted enamel handle of oval section with vignette of a mythological god with female attendant, presented in the original red satin-lined green leather case with lift-out tray, the interior lid gilt stamped with the Ratzersdorfer label.
case 3-1/4" x 14-1/4" x 10-1/4"

Notes: A detailed discussion of this rare and impressive set may be found at the website of the Association of Small Collectors of Antique Silver, newsletter #36, April 2007, article #79: Jayne W. Dye and Karin Sixl-Daniell, "Historismus Silver-Gilt Dessert Set by Hermann Ratzersdorfer".

Some mellowing and darkening of the gilt elements. Specific piece conditions include: Spoon: 5/8" x 1/4" enamel chip at top of handle reverse Spoon: 5/8" x 1/4" enamel chip at top of handle reverse; 1/2" loss to filigree on top ferrule front Spoon: loose handle; 1/4" enamel chip at top of handle reverse; 1/4" x 3/8" at top of handle front Fork: small enamel chip at top of handle side Fork: loose handle; 1/4" enamel chip at top of handle with filigree detached Fork: loose handle, minor chipping around top of handle under ferrule Fork: loose handle Two Knives: loose handle Each piece marked with the Viennese "Dianakopf" and maker's mark. The case is in generally good condition, with some light scuffing on the exterior and discoloration on the interior, but no tears or losses.