Antique, French, Silver-plated Tea Strainer

This unusual French tea strainer, circa 1900, bears a hallmark (5 gr for 5 grams of silver used to plate the piece) and a maker's mark of AP with what looks to be a lion in a square on the oval lozenge as seen in the third photo. The styles of the hallmark and maker's mark are consistent with French production.

The strainer has two finger rings to lift the piece, and I believe the lozenge is either another place to hold the strainer or an appendage to aid in the strainer's placement in a cup. The end opposite the lozenge has a dolphin.

Dimensions are 2.5" across the opening with a depth of ¾".

There are scratches, wear, and discoloration consistent with age and use. I've not polished the piece but will leave this up to the discretion of the new owner. Care should be taken when cleaning/polishing the piece since silver-plate can be ruined if a harsh abrasive is used.

Thank you for looking.