Antique Victorian Sterling Silver Serving Set Carved Dolphins Foliage (5022)

Antique, Victorian sterling silver and carved whale bone serving set - knife and fork. Made in Sheffield, England 1849. Maker A.F. 

Measurements: Knife is approximately 12 3/4 inches long. 

Extraordinary grace and elegance: openwork sterling silver with engraved detail. Dolphin sea and wave theme seen in the actual shape of the knife with it's flowing curves, scrolling openwork and further wavy engraved detail. Powerful silver foliage clasps the ball terminals of the handles. The handles absolutely magnificent in the form of a swimming dolphin with engraved scales, seashell and foliage detail. Lovely buttery patina to the handles. Note: natural surface splitting to natural material of the handles can be seen clearly in the 'photos. 

Marks: both knife and fork server are fully hallmarked: A.H maker. This could be Aaron Hadfield, whose mark was registered in 1818. Sheffield crown; date letter F for 1849; lion for sterling silver standard and oval mark with Queen Victoria facing left. 

Condition: natural minor splitting on surface of handles, commensurate with age. Otherwise, good condition.