Direct from Paris, a stunning 112pc. antique French sterling silver flatware set by one of France’s premier silversmiths “Tetard Freres” in their classic uniplat pattern. This set is in excellent condition with no monograms and rare Mother-of-Pearl handled dessert knives. You can’t go wrong buying quality. The art of silversmithing has been a cornerstone of luxury craftsmanship in Europe for centuries, with France standing at the forefront of this illustrious tradition. Among the pantheon of renowned French silversmiths, Tetard Frères holds a distinguished place. Renowned for their exceptional craftsmanship, commitment to quality, and illustrious patronage, Tetard Frères has created some of the most exquisite silverware in history. Their most celebrated works include the unparalleled 950 sterling silver uniplat flatware sets, which continue to be revered for their elegance and artistry.
Tetard Frères, a name synonymous with French excellence in silverware, was established in the late 19th century by the Tetard brothers, Henri, Jacques, and Louis Tetard. The family’s venture into silversmithing was rooted in a deep appreciation for traditional French artistry, coupled with a desire to innovate within the craft. The brothers quickly gained recognition for their meticulous attention to detail and the exceptional quality of their work, which set them apart in a highly competitive industry. The Tetard workshop, located in Paris, became a hub of creativity and craftsmanship. The brothers were influenced by the rich history of French decorative arts, drawing inspiration from both classical and contemporary styles. This blend of tradition and innovation became a hallmark of Tetard Frères, helping them establish a reputation as one of the leading silversmiths in France.
At the heart of Tetard Frères' success is their unwavering commitment to craftsmanship and quality. Each piece created by Tetard Frères is a testament to the meticulous process that characterizes high-end silversmithing. The Tetard workshop employed master craftsmen who dedicated their lives to perfecting the art of working with silver. This expertise is evident in the precision and artistry of their creations, which range from intricate tea sets to elegant flatware. The process of creating a piece of Tetard silverware begins with the selection of the finest materials. Tetard Frères exclusively used high-quality sterling silver, with a purity of 950, which is considered one of the highest standards in silverware. This choice of material not only ensured the durability of their products but also gave them a distinctive luster that is characteristic of Tetard silver. The production of each piece involved a series of intricate steps, from designing to casting, hammering, engraving, and polishing. The Tetard brothers were known for their rigorous quality control, personally overseeing the production process to ensure that each item met their exacting standards. This attention to detail is what makes Tetard silverware so highly prized by collectors and connoisseurs alike.
Tetard Frères' reputation for excellence attracted the attention of royalty and aristocracy across Europe. The firm's client list reads like a who's who of the European elite, including members of royal families, heads of state, and prominent social figures. This patronage was not only a mark of distinction but also a reflection of the high regard in which Tetard Frères was held. One of the most notable patrons of Tetard Frères was King Alfonso XIII of Spain, who commissioned several pieces of silverware from the firm. The Spanish royal family’s endorsement of Tetard Frères further solidified the company’s reputation as a premier silversmith. The quality and artistry of Tetard silverware made it a preferred choice for royal households, who valued the craftsmanship and elegance that Tetard brought to their tables. In addition to royal patronage, Tetard Frères also catered to the demands of high society. Their creations were often featured at grand banquets and lavish gatherings, where they were admired for their beauty and sophistication. The firm’s ability to create bespoke pieces that met the specific requirements of their clients further enhanced their appeal among the elite.
The excellence of Tetard Frères was recognized through numerous awards and accolades throughout their history. The firm participated in several international exhibitions, where their work was showcased alongside the finest artisans from around the world. These exhibitions provided Tetard Frères with a platform to demonstrate their mastery of silversmithing and to establish their reputation on a global scale. One of the most significant milestones in the history of Tetard Frères was their participation in the Exposition Universelle (World’s Fair) in Paris in 1900. This prestigious event was a celebration of the achievements of the 19th century and a showcase of the latest advancements in art, science, and industry. Tetard Frères was awarded a gold medal at the exposition, a testament to the exceptional quality of their work and their contribution to the French decorative arts
While Tetard Frères is often celebrated for their technical prowess, it is their artistic vision that truly sets them apart. The Tetard brothers were deeply influenced by the artistic movements of their time, including Art Nouveau and Art Deco. These movements, which emphasized natural forms, geometric patterns, and the use of luxurious materials, resonated with the brothers and inspired much of their work. One of the most iconic creations of Tetard Frères is their 950 sterling silver uniplat flatware sets. These sets represent the pinnacle of French silversmithing, combining elegance, functionality, and durability. The term "uniplat" refers to a single-plate design, where the handle and the functional part of the utensil are forged from a single piece of silver. This design is not only aesthetically pleasing but also enhances the strength and balance of the flatware. The uniplat flatware sets by Tetard Frères are characterized by their clean lines, graceful proportions, and subtle yet sophisticated embellishments. Each piece is a work of art, designed to complement a variety of table settings, from the most formal to the everyday. The simplicity of the uniplat design allows the quality of the craftsmanship and the beauty of the silver to take center stage. These flatware sets have become highly sought after, not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for their enduring quality. The use of 950 sterling silver ensures that these pieces are resistant to tarnish and wear, making them a practical investment as well as a symbol of luxury. The uniplat flatware sets have graced the tables of the elite for over a century, a testament to their timeless appeal.
Tetard Frères has left an indelible mark on the world of silversmithing, embodying the finest traditions of French craftsmanship while also embracing innovation and modernity. Their commitment to quality, attention to detail, and artistic vision have earned them a place among the greatest silversmiths in history. The firm’s 950 sterling silver uniplat flatware sets, like this amazing 112pc. set with rare Mother-of-Pearl handled dessert knives, stand as a testament to their mastery of the craft and their ability to create pieces that are both beautiful and functional. The legacy of Tetard Frères continues to be celebrated by collectors and connoisseurs around the world, and their work remains a symbol of the elegance and sophistication that define the art of silversmithing. Each of the sterling pieces in this outstanding set bears the French Government’s Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark in addition to the Tetard Freres sterling silver manufacturer’s hallmark. The gold plated sterling blades (vermeil) on the Mother-of-Pearl handled dessert knives bears the French Government’s “Old Man” hallmark indicating manufactured between 1819 – 1838 as well as the “P.G” manufacturer’s hallmark. The set includes the following (all weights and measures approximate):
12 Dinner Knives - Stainless Blades, 22.80 cm., 98 grams;
12 Dinner Forks, 20.00 cm., 83 grams;
12 Tablespoons, 20.00 cm., 79 grams;
12 Luncheon Knives - Stainless Blades, 18.30 cm., 56 grams;
12 Luncheon / Dessert Forks, 17.00 cm., 50 grams;
12 Luncheon / Dessert Spoons, 17.00 cm., 48 grams;
12 Dessert Knives – Mother of Pearl Handles & Vermeil blades,19.80 cm., 35 grams;
6 Fish Forks, 16.20 cm., 54 grams;
6 Fish Knives, 20.00 cm., 68 grams;
12 Coffee Spoons, 12.00 cm., 25 grams;
1 Large Fish Serving Knife, 25.30 cm., 141 grams;
1 Large Fish Serving Fork, 21.70 cm., 105 grams;
1 Large Serving Spoon, 24.50 cm., 123 grams;
1 Large Serving Fork, 24.50 cm., 109 grams.
