Direct from Paris, a Magnificent Set of 6 Louis XVI Flatware Serving Pieces in French 950 Sterling Silver by French Silversmith "Louis Coignet - the Master of Elegance", Stunning Luxury and Craftsmanship at an Amazingly Low Price and No Monograms - circa early 1890s. This is an amazing set of serving pieces. Each bears the French Government’s Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark, certifying a minimum of 950 sterling silver in addition to the Louis Coignet manufacturer's sterling silver hallmark. The set includes:
1 Salad Serving Spoon 26.00 cm. 110 grams
1 Salad Serving Fork 26.00 cm. 115 grams
1 Large Fish Serving Fork 22.50 cm. 110 grams
1 Large Fish Serving Knife 26.00 cm. 115 grams
1 Gravy Serving Ladle 17.00 cm. 87 grams
1 Large Sauce Serving Ladle 24.50 cm. 116 grams
French craftsmanship has long been revered for its artistry, precision, and elegance. In the realm of silver-smithing, one name that stands out as a paragon of these qualities is Louis Coignet. Born in the heart of France in the 19th century, Coignet's mastery of silverware not only exemplified the technical prowess of his era but also embodied the spirit of innovation and creativity. His works not only adorned dining tables but also enriched the cultural heritage of France and continue to inspire contemporary artisans. Born in 1824 in Lyon, a city renowned for its historical significance in the world of silk and textiles, Louis Coignet's early exposure to intricate craftsmanship likely influenced his future endeavors in silver-smithing. With a childhood steeped in creativity and a burgeoning interest in the arts, Coignet's journey into silver-smithing seemed almost predestined. He embarked on his apprenticeship in the workshops of the esteemed Maison Odiot, one of the most distinguished French silver-smithing firms of the time.
The 19th century marked a period of transition and transformation in Europe, and the realm of decorative arts was no exception. This era witnessed a departure from the ornate designs of the past to a more restrained, refined aesthetic, often characterized by the blend of classical and contemporary elements. Coignet's works bore the influence of this transition, seamlessly weaving together the opulence of the past with the clean lines and minimalist sensibilities of the present. His pieces exuded a sense of understated luxury, where each detail was meticulously crafted to contribute to the overall harmony of the design. Coignet's creations were celebrated not only for their technical brilliance but also for their exceptional artistic merit. Innovation was a hallmark of Coignet's career. He continually pushed the boundaries of traditional silver-smithing, experimenting with new techniques and materials. His fascination with the Renaissance and Gothic styles inspired him to revive forgotten techniques such as niello, a method of inlaying silver with contrasting alloys.
