Tetard Freres 165 piece antique French sterling silver flatware set
Direct from Paris, an amazing 165pc., privately commissioned, sterling silver
flatware set by one of France’s premier silversmiths “Tetard Freres”.
Include a magnificent Louis XVI, 5-drawer lockable storage cabinet and 17
serving pieces and Mother-of-Pearl handles dessert knives.
The history of French silversmithing is replete with illustrious names,
each contributing to the nation's reputation for exceptional silver
craftsmanship. Among them, the firm “Tetard Frères” stands as one of the most
prominent and revered. Founded in the late 19th century, Tetard Frères has built
a legacy on the strength of its unparalleled craftsmanship, exquisite design,
and sterling silver products of the highest caliber. From royal patronage to
numerous international awards and accolades, the firm has become synonymous with
luxury, elegance, and durability. Their flatware sets, made of 950 sterling
silver, like this amazing 165pc. set, are masterpieces that continue to
captivate connoisseurs and collectors alike.
The Tetard Frères firm was founded in Paris in 1880 by Edmond Tetard, a master
silversmith whose eye for detail and passion for innovation laid the groundwork
for the company’s subsequent rise to prominence. Edmond Tetard's background as a
skilled craftsman informed every aspect of his work, and his commitment to
quality soon attracted clients from the upper echelons of society. Tetard Frères
were known for pushing the boundaries of traditional silversmithing. Their
craftsmanship blended meticulous hand-engraving, chasing, and repoussé
techniques with a modern aesthetic sensibility. The brothers perfected the art
of creating seamless transitions between functionality and beauty, particularly
in their silver flatware, tableware, and decorative pieces.
Few silversmiths can boast the level of royal and aristocratic patronage that
Tetard Frères enjoyed. Their reputation for exceptional craftsmanship earned
them commissions from European royal courts, including the French aristocracy,
making their works a staple at grand banquets, diplomatic functions, and royal
households. The royal court of
France was particularly fond of Tetard Frères' creations. Their silverware and
table settings were often used in royal residences, including the Palais de
l'Élysée, which served as the residence of the President of the French Republic.
Additionally, Tetard Frères received commissions from international royalty,
including the kings and queens of Belgium, Spain, and the Netherlands. Such
patronage not only bolstered the firm's reputation but also further solidified
its status as the premier silversmith of choice for the elite.
Tetard Frères' pieces were often customized to meet the specific requirements of
their royal clients. These bespoke commissions included personalized monograms,
coats of arms, and other emblems of nobility. By working closely with their
aristocratic patrons, Tetard Frères ensured that each piece reflected the tastes
and desires of their distinguished clientele. This bespoke approach to
silversmithing added another layer of exclusivity to their work, making each
item not just a work of art but also a symbol of personal identity and status.
Perhaps one of the most iconic commissions was the creation of a silver
flatware sets for the French government to gift to foreign dignitaries. These
sets, often bearing intricate engravings or repoussé work, were designed to
showcase the best of French artistry while simultaneously serving a practical
purpose. The silverware produced for these occasions represented more than just
luxury—it was a diplomatic tool, symbolizing France’s grandeur and cultural
heritage.
Tetard Frères' exceptional work did not go unnoticed on the international stage.
Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, they participated in several
international exhibitions, where their craftsmanship was celebrated and
rewarded. The firm's pieces were often displayed in prominent venues such as the
Exposition Universelle (World’s Fair) in Paris, where they received numerous
accolades for innovation, artistry, and technical skill.
At the 1900 Paris Exposition Universelle, Tetard Frères earned a gold
medal for their outstanding work in silver. This recognition further solidified
their place among the most prestigious silversmiths of the era. The firm's
pieces on display included elaborate flatware sets, decorative vases, and
intricate centerpieces, all of which showcased their ability to combine
traditional French design with modern influences.
Perhaps the most iconic and enduring product of Tetard Frères' silversmithing is
their 950 sterling silver flatware sets. These sets, like this stunning 165pc.
set, represent the pinnacle of luxury, combining the finest materials with
expert craftsmanship to create objects of both beauty and functionality.
Tetard Frères’ flatware is distinguished by its use of 950 sterling
silver, which contains 95% pure silver—higher than the standard 925 sterling
silver used in most flatware. This higher silver content not only enhances the
luster and brilliance of the pieces but also ensures greater durability. The
weight and feel of 950 sterling silver flatware are often regarded as superior
to other types of silver, offering a tangible sense of quality and prestige.
Each piece of Tetard Frères flatware is meticulously handcrafted by
skilled artisans who employ traditional techniques passed down through
generations. From the initial design process to the final polishing, every step
of production is carried out with an attention to detail that is unmatched. The
firm’s artisans are adept at combining technical precision with artistic
expression, resulting in flatware that is not only functional but also a work of
art.
Tetard Frères flatware sets are renowned for their elegance and sophistication.
Regardless of the design, each piece is characterized by clean lines, balanced
proportions, and a harmonious blend of form and function.
One of the key features of Tetard Frères’ flatware is its attention to
ergonomics. Each utensil is designed to feel comfortable in the hand, with a
balanced weight that enhances the dining experience. This focus on both
aesthetics and practicality is a hallmark of the firm’s work and one of the
reasons why their flatware sets have remained so popular among collectors and
connoisseurs. Over the years, Tetard
Frères' flatware sets have become highly sought after by collectors and
aficionados of fine silver. The firm’s commitment to quality, combined with its
prestigious history and royal connections, has made its pieces valuable not only
for their aesthetic appeal but also as investments.
Many collectors view Tetard Frères flatware as more than just utilitarian
objects; they are considered works of art that embody the rich tradition of
French silversmithing. Their timeless designs and superior craftsmanship ensure
that these pieces remain relevant and desirable across generations. In addition,
the use of 950 sterling silver adds intrinsic value, as the high silver content
contributes to the enduring beauty and durability of each piece.
The secondary market for Tetard Frères flatware is robust, with many
pieces fetching significant prices at auctions and in antique markets.
Collectors prize the firm’s work for its historical significance, artistic
merit, and connection to some of the most important moments in French cultural
and diplomatic history. As a result, owning a Tetard Frères flatware set is not
just a statement of luxury; it is also an investment in an enduring legacy of
craftsmanship.
Tetard Frères' legacy as one of the finest silversmiths in France is a testament
to the firm’s unwavering commitment to excellence. From its humble beginnings
under Edmond Tetard to its rise as a global symbol of French luxury, the firm
has consistently demonstrated a mastery of both traditional and innovative
techniques. Through royal patronage, international accolades, and the production
of some of the world’s most exquisite flatware, Tetard Frères has left an
indelible mark on the art of silversmithing.
This amazing 165pc. sterling silver flatware set exemplifies the firm’s
dedication to quality and beauty. Combining artistry with practicality, these
pieces continue to captivate collectors and connoisseurs, serving as a reminder
of the enduring appeal of fine silver. Today, as Tetard Frères’ works grace both
private collections and prestigious dining tables around the world, they stand
as a lasting tribute to the artistry and craftsmanship that have defined French
silversmithing for centuries.
This is an incredible set, in excellent condition with 5 drawer storage cabinet.
The cabinet is not the original for the set, but holds this set comfortably.
Each of the sterling silver piece bears the hallmark of Master French
Silversmith Tetard Freres in addition to the French Government's "Head of the
Minerva - 1" Hallmark, certifying a minimum of 950 sterling silver.
The Mother-of-Pearl handled dessert knives with sterling silver blades
bears The French government's 2nd "titre" and the manufacturer's silver hallmark
- GP. This set is of exceptional quality and craftsmanship - check the weights
and measures below. The set includes the following - all weights and measures
approximate:
12 Dinner Knives - Stainless Blades 23.50 cm. 97 grams
12 Dinner Forks 20.00 cm. 86 grams
12 Tablespoons 20.00 cm. 87 grams
12 Luncheon Knives - Stainless Blades 19.00 cm. 55 grams
12 Dessert / Luncheon Forks 16.50 cm. 50 grams
12 Dessert / Luncheon Spoons 16.50 cm. 51 grams
12 Dessert Knives - Stainless Blades 19.00 cm. 55 grams
12 Dessert Knives - Mother of Pearl Handles and Silver Blades 18.00 cm.
12 Individual Fish Knives 20.30 cm. 66 grams
12 Individual Fish Forks 16.70 cm. 58 grams
12 Cake Forks 14.70 cm. 36 grams
12 Ice Cream Spoons 12.40 cm. 28 grams
12 Demitasse Spoons in gold plated sterling silver (vermeil) 10.00 cm. 13 grams
1 Large Serving Spoon 25.80 cm. 137 grams
1 Large Serving Fork 25.50 cm. 116 grams
1 Large Cake / Pie Serving Knife 25.70 cm. 137 grams
1 Large Individual Tart Server 24.30 cm. 134 grams
1 Large Pie Serving Knife 25.50 cm. 146 grams
1 Large Fish Serving Fork 21.80 cm. 116 grams
1 Large Fish Serving Knife 25.50 cm. 137 grams
2 Small Cheese / Dessert Knives 19.00 cm. 51 grams
