Direct from private chateau near Paris, a truly magnificent pair of original 950 sterling silver Louis XVI 5-candle candelabra by one of France's premier silversmiths "Tetard Frères". Tetard Frères, the esteemed French silversmith firm, has etched its name into the annals of European decorative arts with its unparalleled quality, exquisite craftsmanship, and a reputation for timeless elegance. Renowned for creating objects of immense beauty, precision, and utility, the company has become synonymous with French silver excellence, embodying the highest standards of the silversmith’s art. Among their most celebrated works, the Tetard Frères 950 sterling silver candelabras, like this amazing pair, stand as exemplary masterpieces, reflecting the firm’s dedication to precision and artistry.
Tetard Frères originated in Paris in the late 19th century, during a period of great flourishing for French decorative arts. The firm was founded by Edmond Tetard, a master silversmith who achieved widespread acclaim for his work in both silver and gold. Edmond had already made a name for himself by the time his sons took over the business in 1903, transforming the family workshop into one of the most successful silver firms of the early 20th century. The hallmark of Tetard Frères is their unwavering commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, and design. From their inception, they sought to push the boundaries of silver craftsmanship, experimenting with new techniques and forms while staying true to the principles of classical design. In addition to silver tableware, the firm produced a wide variety of luxury objects, from jewelry boxes to tea sets, often working in collaboration with some of the finest artists, designers, and decorators of their time. Their ability to combine form, function, and beauty allowed them to secure a loyal clientele, including French nobility and members of high society.
One of the defining features of Tetard Frères' work is the exceptional quality of their silver pieces. The Tetard brothers placed a premium on craftsmanship, ensuring that every piece that left their workshop was meticulously designed, carefully crafted, and flawlessly finished. Their approach to silverwork was grounded in the belief that silver objects should be both beautiful and functional, and this philosophy is evident in the extraordinary attention to detail found in their creations. The hallmark of Tetard became a symbol of unparalleled quality in the world of silver. Each piece was handcrafted, often incorporating delicate hand-chased motifs, classical ornamentation, and intricate repoussé work. In the production process, artisans worked on every phase of the design, from the initial shaping of the raw silver to the final polishing of the finished product. The firm was known for its ability to execute even the most intricate and delicate designs, showcasing the technical prowess of their craftsmen.
Among the most admired creations of Tetard Frères are their 950 sterling silver candelabras, which serve as epitomes of elegance, functionality, and masterful design. Candelabras, as decorative centerpieces, have been used in grand homes and palaces for centuries, and Tetard Frères took this form to new artistic heights. These candelabras, which typically feature multiple branches and elegant scrollwork, are masterworks in silver and reflect the firm’s dedication to technical precision and artistic beauty. What sets Tetard Frères' candelabras apart is the refinement of their designs. Each piece embodies a harmonious blend of form and function, with an emphasis on symmetry, balance, and proportion. The candelabras feature gracefully curving arms, often adorned with acanthus leaves, garlands, and other classical motifs. The bases are solid and weighty, providing stability while also serving as a decorative element in their own right. Many of these candelabras are detachable, allowing the branches to be removed and reassembled for ease of use and storage. The 950 sterling silver candelabras produced by Tetard Frères are also notable for their stunning finishes. The silver is polished to a high sheen, creating a mirror-like surface that reflects light and enhances the beauty of the surrounding environment. The candelabras are designed to catch and play with light, creating a warm and inviting ambiance when candles are lit. This interplay of light and silver is a hallmark of Tetard Frères' work, and it speaks to the firm’s deep understanding of both the material properties of silver and the principles of design.
Collectors and connoisseurs have long admired Tetard Frères' candelabras for their beauty and craftsmanship. These pieces are not merely functional objects; they are works of art that elevate any space in which they are displayed. Whether used as centerpieces on a dining table or as decorative objects in a grand salon, Tetard Frères candelabras exude an air of sophistication and refinement. The reputation of Tetard Frères for superior craftsmanship and impeccable quality attracted the attention of royalty and aristocracy, solidifying the firm’s place among the most respected silversmiths in France. By the early 20th century, Tetard Frères had established itself as a favored silversmith for high society and the French elite. The Tetard brothers’ dedication to producing only the finest silver pieces, along with their ability to cater to the specific tastes of their clients, earned them commissions from prestigious clients, including members of European royal families.
The Tetard Frères firm enjoyed royal patronage from some of the most influential courts in Europe, including the French royal family and other European aristocracy. This patronage was a testament not only to the quality of their work but also to their ability to produce silver objects that matched the grandeur and opulence of royal residences. The firm’s pieces graced the tables of royal banquets, adorned the interiors of palaces, and were presented as gifts to foreign dignitaries. This association with royalty elevated the status of Tetard Frères, cementing their place as one of the foremost silversmiths in Europe. The royal commissions also allowed the firm to further refine their designs, incorporating elements of grandeur and elegance that appealed to their high-ranking clientele. As a result, Tetard Frères became known not only for their technical mastery but also for their ability to create silver objects that embodied the luxurious and sophisticated tastes of the elite.
Tetard Frères’ dedication to excellence in silversmithing was recognized on numerous occasions with awards and accolades from prestigious institutions and international exhibitions. Perhaps the most significant recognition came at the Exposition Universelle (World’s Fair) in Paris in 1900, where Edmond Tetard was awarded the gold medal for his extraordinary work in silver. This event marked a turning point for the firm, bringing international attention to their craftsmanship and setting the stage for future successes. Tetard Frères' legacy extends beyond the beautiful objects they created; their influence on the field of silversmithing can still be felt today. The firm’s commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and innovation set a standard that continues to inspire contemporary silversmiths. Their work is often cited as an example of how traditional techniques can be adapted to meet the demands of modern design, and their ability to produce both classical and contemporary pieces has influenced generations of artisans. Today, pieces by Tetard Frères are highly prized by collectors and are considered to be among the finest examples of French silverwork. Their candelabras, in particular, are sought after for their beauty, craftsmanship, and historical significance. These pieces are not only valuable for their silver content but also for the artistry and skill that went into their creation.
Tetard Frères stands as a beacon of excellence in the world of French silversmithing, renowned for their extraordinary craftsmanship, royal patronage, and commitment to producing only the finest silver objects. Their 950 sterling silver candelabras represent the pinnacle of their artistry, showcasing their technical prowess, refined aesthetic, and ability to create pieces that are both functional and beautiful. Throughout their history, Tetard Frères earned the admiration of royalty, aristocracy, and connoisseurs alike, becoming one of the most respected names in European silverwork. Their legacy continues to influence contemporary silversmiths, and their pieces remain highly coveted by collectors around the world. This magnificent set of two 5-candle 950 sterling silver candelabra in their classic Louis XVI pattern is a testament to the quality and craftsmanship for which the firm is internationally known.
Candelabra #1 stands approximately 28.50 cm. high, is roughly 34.00 cm. across and weights 3,154 grams. It is stamped with the French Government's Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark certifying a minimum of 950 sterling silver in addition to the Tetard Frères' manufacturer's sterling silver hallmark. It comes with its own anti-tarnish wrap for easy storage. Candelabra #2 also stands approximately 28.50 cm. high, is roughly 34.00 cm. across and weights 3,191 grams. It is also stamped with the French Government's Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark certifying a minimum of 950 sterling silver in addition to the Tetard Frères' manufacturer's sterling silver hallmark. It too comes with its own anti-tarnish wrap for easy storage. The 5-candle branches on each of these amazing candelabra are removable which converts each to a single candle-holder. Each of the single candle holders stands approximately 28.00 cm. high and weighs roughly 1,106 grams.
