www.925-1000.com

Hello

I bought this loverly item : it was used to sand the ink so it dried instantly, as seen in period movies .






The only mark is the French swan, for unknown origin.



Can someone please tell me how a piece like this can be unmarked : it is chiseled and of very good quality, so I would expect to see a maker's mark and a duty mark.

Does this also help to date it?

Thanks
François

I know little about French marks but is the swan a silver mark which has been stamped on small items of silver since the early 1800's? Don't take my word for it of course. Best wishes, Mike.

This swan was used in the 16th and 17th century in Zwickau (DDR part of Germany)
Now yuor item is not 17th century - but it gives you a place to start searching.