Direct from Paris, a stunning privately commissioned Louis XVI, 178 piece sterling silver flatware set with magnificent 5-drawer lockable storage chest and including an awesome assortment of 10 serving pieces by international known French silversmiths "Edmond Bonnescoeur", circa 1900. In the realm of silversmithing, few names evoke as much reverence and admiration as that of Edmond Bonnescoeur. Born in 1820 in Paris, Bonnescoeur rose to prominence during the 19th century, establishing himself as a virtuoso craftsman whose sterling silver creations adorned the tables of royalty and aristocracy alike.
By the mid-19th century, Bonnescoeur had gained widespread recognition for his exceptional craftsmanship and innovative designs. His sterling silver creations caught the eye of affluent clientele, including members of the French aristocracy and elite circles of European society. Through his dedication to excellence and commitment to pushing the boundaries of his craft, Bonnescoeur swiftly ascended to the pinnacle of the silver-smithing world. Central to Edmond Bonnescoeur's enduring legacy is his unwavering commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Each piece bearing his hallmark reflects the culmination of centuries-old techniques passed down through generations, combined with his own innovative flair and attention to detail. From intricately engraved patterns to meticulously crafted handles and finials, Bonnescoeur's sterling silver flatware sets exemplify the pinnacle of artistic achievement in silversmithing.
Throughout his illustrious career, Edmond Bonnescoeur garnered numerous accolades and prestigious awards, solidifying his reputation as a master silversmith of unparalleled talent. Among his most notable achievements was the coveted Prix de l'Exposition Universelle, awarded to him in 1867 for his extraordinary contributions to the art of silver-smithing. This esteemed honor served as a testament to Bonnescoeur's exceptional skill and artistic vision, further cementing his status as a luminary in his field. Perhaps the most illustrious testament to Edmond Bonnescoeur's esteemed reputation was his appointment as the official silversmith to the French royal court. His sterling silver creations adorned the tables of monarchs and nobles, symbolizing the epitome of luxury and refinement. The patronage of royalty not only elevated Bonnescoeur's stature in the eyes of his contemporaries but also afforded him the opportunity to showcase his unparalleled craftsmanship to an elite audience.
Among Edmond Bonnescoeur's most iconic creations are his sterling silver flatware sets, renowned for their exquisite beauty and unparalleled craftsmanship. Each set is a masterpiece of design and execution, meticulously crafted to elevate the dining experience to new heights of sophistication and elegance. From ornate dinner forks and spoons to intricately detailed knives and serving utensils, Bonnescoeur's flatware sets remain coveted treasures sought after by collectors and aficionados of fine dining. Edmond Bonnescoeur's influence extends far beyond the confines of his own lifetime, leaving an indelible mark on the world of silversmithing for generations to come. His innovative designs and uncompromising commitment to excellence continue to inspire contemporary artisans seeking to uphold the tradition of fine craftsmanship. Moreover, his sterling silver flatware sets serve as enduring symbols of luxury and refinement, cherished heirlooms that embody the timeless elegance of a bygone era.
Edmond Bonnescoeur stands as a towering figure in the annals of silversmithing, revered for his extraordinary talent, prestigious accolades, royal patronage, unmatched quality and craftsmanship, and iconic sterling silver flatware sets. His legacy endures as a testament to the enduring power of artistic vision and dedication to excellence, serving as an inspiration to artisans and enthusiasts alike who continue to marvel at the timeless beauty of his creations. Through his remarkable achievements, Edmond Bonnescoeur has secured his rightful place among the pantheon of master craftsmen whose work transcends the boundaries of time and place.
This amazing 178 piece set is in extremely good condition. Each of the sterling silver pieces bears the hallmark of Master French Silversmith "Bonnescoeur" in addition to the French Government's "Head of the Minerva - 1" Hallmark, certifying a minimum of 950 sterling silver. The gold-plated sterling silver (vermeil) blades on the mother-of-pearl handled dessert knives also bears the French Government’s Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark in addition to the Jacques and Pierre Cardeilhac (Christofle) sterling silver manufacturer's hallmark. The stunning storage cabinet is not the original storage cabinet custom made for the set, as some of the serving pieces don't fit. But the cabinet holds the set very comfortably. The set is of exceptional quality and craftsmanship - check the weights and measures below - all weights and measures approximate:
12 Dinner Knives - Inox Blades 24.70 cm. 72 grams
12 Dinner Forks 20.70 cm. 85 grams
12 Tablespoons 20.70 cm. 89 grams
12 Luncheon Knives - Inox Blades 20.60 cm. 48 grams
12 Luncheon / Dessert Forks 17.40 cm. 51 grams
12 Luncheon / Dessert Spoons 17.20 cm. 54 grams
12 Dessert Knives - Mother of Pearl Handles and Vermeil Blades 20.00 cm.
12 Fish Knives 20.60 cm. 64 grams
12 Fish Forks 17.60 cm. 61 grams
12 Tea Spoons 14.00 cm. 27 grams
12 Cake Forks 14.20 cm. 33 grams
12 Ice Cream Spoons 13.30 cm. 30 grams
12 Oyster Forks 12.80 cm. 27 grams
12 Coffee Spoons 12.00 cm. 18 grams
1 Large Soup / Stew Serving Ladle 30.80 cm. 243 grams
1 Large Serving Spoon 25.50 cm. 126 grams
1 Large Serving Fork 25.50 cm. 120 grams
1 Large Salad Serving Fork 23.50 cm. 113 grams
1 Large Fish Serving Knife 26.50 cm. 141 grams
1 Large Gravy / Sauce Ladle 17.20 cm. 95 grams
1 Large Cake Serving Knife 26.50 cm. 124 grams
1 Ice Cream / Custard Serving Scoop 22.80 cm. 117 grams
1 Large Salad Serving Spoon 23.50 cm. 111 grams
1 Large Fish Serving Fork 23.20 cm. 134 grams
