comprising a tray, tea pot, coffee pot, milk jug, covered sugar bowl and tongs, twelve tea spoons, a tea strainer and a tea scoop, nielloed with views of the Moscow Kremlin and the coat of arms of the Cosnac family within arabesque strapwork on stippled grounds, ivory separators, 84 standard, French import marks, in original wood box, the lid applied with a plaque engraved with the arms and inscribed in French 'From the parishioners of St Louis/ April 1884'

Antoine Médéric de Cosnac (1834-1899)

Excellent, near perfect condition. The box with age cracks and lacking its key.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Ordained a priest in 1857, Antoine Médéric de Cosnac was the son of the Marquis de Cosnac; since the 13th century, the family has included a number of bishops and a cardinal.  De Cosnac served at the Cathedral of Tulle, France, near his birthplace of Brive la Gaillard, before moving to Moscow in 1867 where he was the priest of the Church of Saint Louis of France in the Krasnoselsky District.  The present lot was presumably a gift from members of the church on the occasion of his 50th birthday, 5 April 1884.