French Sauceboats hallmarked ARGENT + Sterling or Plate?

[tracer12]

As shown these are the hallmarks on this nice pair of french sauceboats, they are marked on the underplate and the sauce. I find conflicting information about the Argent mark, lacking the standard french marks and due to the fact that they are heavy I would have to assume they are plate but I can't be sure. Any assistance would be appreciated, also does anyone know the maker?

[blakstone]

Your instincts are correct; your sauceboats are indeed silverplate. The square-shaped maker's mark with the word "doublé" is the key; this form was mandated for French silverplater's marks in 1798. The mark "RC" with a squirrel is that of Georges Durant of Paris, registered in 1858. I couldn't find a cancellation date, but the style of your sauceboats certainly suggests Second Empire opulence to me, i.e. third quarter 19th C.

[tracer12]

Thank you for sharing your expertice. Much appreciated.