A fine Irish silver-gilt French style dessert service, maker's mark ID in oval probably for Isaac D'Olier, Dublin, circa 1780

decorated with acanthus and bellflowers, the blades by James Keating, comprising:
24 dessert knives
24 dessert forks
24 dessert spoons
72 pieces, in fitted leather-bound case

all with wear from use, 4 knives with blades loose, the case with scratches to leather, otherwise good condition
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

This pattern of dessert flatware was made by Francois-Thomas Germain. In 1767 Earl Harcourt acquired a service for 24 as part of equipping himself for his embassy to Paris. In 1769 he had the service extended in London through Parker & Wakelin, who subcontracted the forks and spoons to William and Thomas Chawner and the knives to Phillip Norman (see Helen Clifford, Silver in London: The Parker and Wakelin Partnership, 1760-1776, pp. 64-65). This set is an Irish production of the same elaborate and finely detailed Neoclassical pattern, executed to a very high standard.