Help with Identifying Mark and Pattern

[happytaps]

Hello, I was wondering if someone might recognize this maker and pattern... The only marks are on the front - the right side is what looks like a man facing left, and the left appears to be the top of a thistle? and maybe a T, R, and E? The person who gave me these forks thought they might be Buccalleti, but from what I can see their silver is marked on the back Buccalleti and Italy. She seemed confident they are sterling. Any help re maker and ideally pattern would be appreciated. Thank you, Susan
http://www.iauctionassist.com/100_4614.jpg
http://www.iauctionassist.com/100_4621.jpg
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[Neruda]

Your forks are French - the man's head is Mercury and was used for silver destined for export and thus exempt from internal taxes. Until recently the French standard was either 95% or 80% purity - indicated by either the number "1" or "2" at the bottom left of Mercury.

I'm afraid I can't work out the maker's mark - except to say the lozenge is typically French.
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[happytaps]

Thank you - I was not even close! This helps to point me in the right direction. Regards, Susan
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[admin]

French Hallmarks
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