French Renaissance Revival Silver Pepper Mill with Peugeot Mechanism, circa 1900

 

French Renaissance Revival Silver Pepper Mill with Peugeot Mechanism, circa 1900

A fine French export silver pepper mill, Belle Époque period, measuring 5 inches high by 2.5 inches in diameter, fitted with its original Peugeot Brevete S.G.D.G. steel grinding mechanism. Total weight 240 grams, including mechanism.

The baluster-form body is richly decorated in repoussé and chased silver with bold Renaissance Revival ornament: scrolling acanthus, strapwork, and expressive bearded masks whose flowing mustaches transform into vegetal arabesques, evoking the natural abundance and vitality celebrated in Renaissance design. A vacant cartouche remains unengraved, framed by foliate scrolls, while the domed lid is crowned with a knopped finial and fruiting vine motifs.

Hallmarked on the underside with French silver marks (including the Minerva standard for .950 silver) and stamped Brevete S.G.D.G. Export, confirming patent protection for export. The mill retains its original Peugeot steel mechanism, prized for precision and durability.

An elegant fusion of artistry and function, this piece embodies Belle Époque luxury while recalling the grandeur of Renaissance ornament.

Dimensions: 5" high × 2.5" diameter

Weight: 240 g (with mechanism)

Date: circa 1890–1910

Origin: France