Tiffany & Co. Lap-Over-Edge Sterling Silver Flatware

Japanese, in the aesthetic taste. Lap-over-edge with conventional decoration, etched with different fish, birds, flowers, foliage, and insects. Marked 'Tiffany & Co.', circa 1890. Total - 224 pieces. Weighable - 238 troy ounces.

Note: Designed by Charles Grosjean in the Aesthetic style, Lap Over Edge was unique as every handle of the service was decorated with a different flower, fish, animal or insect. The designs for much of the decoration were inspired by Japanese design books and wood-block prints. Lap Over Edge is considered one of Tiffany & Co.'s most daring and innovative flatware patterns. The high costs of finishing each piece individually meant that this service was never intended for the mass market, but was produced as an exclusive line for the wealthiest Americans.