Direct from Paris, a stunning 4pc. antique French sterling silver tea set, Louis XVI model in excellent condition by France’s premier silversmith “Christofle (Cardeilhac) – silversmith to the King – plus a silver-plate serving tray. The French silversmithing industry has long been synonymous with quality, elegance, and artistic craftsmanship. Among the many revered names in this field, Cardeilhac stands out as a paragon of excellence. Founded in 1804 by Antoine-Vital Cardeilhac, the Cardeilhac house became one of the most distinguished silversmiths in France, renowned for their exquisite designs, masterful craftsmanship, and illustrious clientele.
Antoine-Vital Cardeilhac established the Cardeilhac firm in 1804 in Paris, a period marked by the resurgence of French decorative arts following the turbulence of the French Revolution. His workshop quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality silverware that combined functionality with refined aesthetics. The hallmark of Cardeilhac's silverware has always been its exceptional quality and craftsmanship. Each piece produced by the firm was meticulously crafted by skilled artisans who were masters of their trade. The silverware was known for its fine detailing, impeccable finishes, and innovative designs. Cardeilhac's artisans employed a range of techniques, including repoussé, chasing, engraving, and casting, to create intricate patterns and textures on their pieces. These techniques required not only technical skill but also a deep understanding of artistic composition and design.
One of the most striking aspects of Cardeilhac's work is the balance they achieved between form and function. While their pieces were undoubtedly beautiful, they were also designed to be practical and durable. This was particularly evident in their tea sets, which were not only exquisite works of art but also highly functional items intended for everyday use. The teapots, sugar bowls, and creamers produced by Cardeilhac were ergonomically designed, with handles that were comfortable to hold and spouts that poured smoothly. The attention to detail in these pieces extended to every aspect, from the proportion of the handles to the fit of the lids.
Cardeilhac’s commitment to quality was also reflected in their choice of materials. They used only the finest sterling silver, which was known for its purity and durability. The firm was rigorous in its adherence to the strict standards of French silver hallmarking, ensuring that every piece bore the appropriate marks that attested to its authenticity and quality. This dedication to excellence earned Cardeilhac a loyal clientele and a reputation as one of the finest silversmiths in France.
Throughout its history, the Cardeilhac firm received numerous awards and accolades that recognized its outstanding contributions to the art of silversmithing. The house first gained international recognition at the Great Exhibition of 1851 in London, where they were awarded a medal for the exceptional quality of their silverware. This event was one of the first major international exhibitions of its kind, and Cardeilhac's success there helped to establish their reputation on the global stage. Cardeilhac’s participation in subsequent exhibitions further cemented their reputation. At the 1867 Exposition Universelle in Paris, they were awarded another silver medal, and at the 1878 Exposition Universelle, they received a gold medal. These exhibitions provided a platform for Cardeilhac to showcase their most innovative and exquisite pieces, often introducing new designs and techniques that would influence the broader field of decorative arts.
One of the most prestigious accolades that Cardeilhac received came at the 1900 Exposition Universelle in Paris, where they were awarded the Grand Prix. This was the highest honor bestowed at the exhibition, recognizing Cardeilhac’s unrivaled mastery of silversmithing. The 1900 Exposition Universelle was a particularly important event, marking the turn of the century and celebrating the achievements of the Belle Époque. Cardeilhac’s triumph at this event was a fitting culmination of their years of dedication to excellence.
Cardeilhac’s reputation for quality and craftsmanship attracted the attention of some of the most illustrious figures of the time, including members of royal families and the European aristocracy. Royal patronage was a mark of distinction that elevated the status of any firm, and Cardeilhac was no exception. Their silverware was favored by several European monarchs, who appreciated the firm’s commitment to excellence and artistry.
One of the most notable patrons of Cardeilhac was King Louis-Philippe I of France, who reigned from 1830 to 1848. Known as the "Citizen King," Louis-Philippe sought to modernize the monarchy and foster a more inclusive relationship between the crown and the people. As part of his efforts to promote French industry and craftsmanship, he commissioned numerous works from leading artists and artisans, including Cardeilhac. The firm created several pieces for the royal household, including ornate silverware that was used for state banquets and other official functions.
Cardeilhac’s association with the French monarchy extended beyond Louis-Philippe. The firm also produced silverware for Napoleon III, the last Emperor of France, who reigned from 1852 to 1870. Napoleon III was a great patron of the arts, and his reign saw a flourishing of French decorative arts and architecture. Cardeilhac’s work during this period reflected the opulence and grandeur of the Second Empire style, characterized by its elaborate ornamentation and rich detailing. In addition to their royal clientele, Cardeilhac’s silverware was also highly sought after by the European aristocracy and wealthy industrialists. The firm’s reputation for quality and exclusivity made their pieces highly desirable, and owning Cardeilhac silverware became a symbol of status and refinement. This prestigious clientele helped to ensure the firm’s continued success and contributed to its legacy as one of the foremost silversmiths of the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Among the many types of silverware produced by Cardeilhac, their sterling silver tea sets are particularly noteworthy. These tea sets are celebrated not only for their beauty and craftsmanship but also for their innovative designs that reflected the changing tastes of the time. Cardeilhac’s tea sets were the epitome of elegance, combining artistic flair with practicality. The design of Cardeilhac’s tea sets evolved over the years, reflecting the broader trends in French decorative arts. In the early 19th century, their tea sets were influenced by the neoclassical style, characterized by simple, elegant forms and motifs inspired by antiquity. These early tea sets often featured fluted bodies, delicate garlands, and acanthus leaf decorations, all executed with a precision and attention to detail that set them apart from their contemporaries.
As the century progressed, Cardeilhac embraced the more ornate and elaborate designs of the Second Empire period. Their tea sets from this era are characterized by their rich ornamentation, often featuring intricate repoussé work, chased floral patterns, and gilded accents. The handles and spouts of the teapots were often elaborately shaped, sometimes taking the form of animal heads or mythical creatures, adding a whimsical touch to the pieces. The Belle Époque period, which spanned the late 19th and early 20th centuries, saw a shift towards more refined and elegant designs. Cardeilhac’s tea sets from this period are characterized by their graceful lines, smooth surfaces, and understated decoration. The Art Nouveau movement, which emerged during this time, had a significant influence on Cardeilhac’s designs. Their tea sets began to feature flowing, organic forms, with motifs inspired by nature, such as flowers, leaves, and vines. This style was a departure from the more rigid and symmetrical designs of the past, reflecting a new appreciation for natural beauty and artistic expression.
Cardeilhac’s tea sets were not only visually stunning but also highly functional. The firm paid great attention to the ergonomics of their designs, ensuring that their teapots were easy to handle and pour. The lids of the teapots were often hinged, allowing them to be opened and closed with one hand, a feature that was both practical and innovative. The sugar bowls and creamers were similarly well-designed, with lids that fit snugly and handles that were comfortable to hold. One of the most remarkable aspects of Cardeilhac’s tea sets is the way they combined different techniques and materials to create a harmonious whole. The firm often used a combination of sterling silver and other materials, such as ivory, ebony, and mother-of-pearl, to create contrast and visual interest. The use of gilding was also common, adding a touch of luxury to the pieces. These elements were all brought together with a masterful sense of proportion and balance, resulting in tea sets that were not only beautiful but also cohesive and harmonious.
Today, Cardeilhac’s sterling silver tea sets are highly prized by collectors and connoisseurs of fine silverware. They are considered masterpieces of French silversmithing, embodying the best of the firm’s craftsmanship and artistic vision. These tea sets are a testament to Cardeilhac’s enduring legacy and their contribution to the world of decorative arts. The legacy of Cardeilhac as a premier French silversmith is a testament to their unwavering commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and artistic excellence. From their origins in the early 19th century to their zenith in the Belle Époque, Cardeilhac consistently produced silverware that was both beautiful and functional, earning them numerous awards and accolades. Their work was favored by royalty and the elite, further cementing their status as one of the most distinguished silversmiths of their time.
This magnificent 4pc. sterling silver tea set with accompanying silver-plate serving tray is a stunning example of the quality and craftsmanship for which the firm is internationally known. Exemplary works of art, combining intricate design with practical functionality, Cardeilhac sterling tea sets remain highly sought after today, cherished by collectors for their timeless beauty and the skill with which they were crafted. The name Cardeilhac has become synonymous with the highest standards of French silversmithing, and their legacy continues to be celebrated by those who appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship of fine silverware. This set is in excellent condition and each piece comes with its own anti-tarnish storage wrap for easy storage.
The elegant teapot stands roughly 15.00 cm. in height to the top of the lid, measures 20.50 cm. across from the top of the spout to the outside of the handle and weights 474 grams. It is stamped “Cardeilhac Paris” on the underside and bears the French Government’s Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark in addition to the Ernst Cardeilhac sterling silver manufacturer’s hallmark. The stunning coffee pot is approximately 17.50 cm. high to the top of the lid, measures 17.00 cm. across from the top of the spout to the outside of the handle and weights 424 grams. It is stamped “Cardeilhac Paris” on the underside and bears the French Government’s Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark ina ddition to the Ernst Cardeilhac sterling silver manufacturer’s hallmark. The gorgeous sugar bowl is roughly 12.00 cm. high to the top of the lid, 13.50 cm. across to the outside of the handles and weights 373 grams. It is stamped “Cardeilhac Paris” on the underside and bears the French Government’s Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark in addition to the Ernst Cardeilhac sterling silver manufacturer’s hallmark. The dainty cream pitcher is roughly 9.50 cm. high to the top of the spout, measures 12.50 cm. across form the tip of the spout to the outside of the handle and weights 169 grams. It is stamped “Cardeilhac Paris” on the underside and bears the French Government’s Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark in addition to the Ernst Cardeilhac sterling silver manufacturer’s hallmark. The massive serving tray is silver-plate and measures 57.00 cm. in length to the outside of the handles, 38.00 cm. wide at is widest point and weights 2.225 grams.
