Direct from a Private Mansion in Paris, a Magnificent 4pc. Antique French 950 Sterling Silver and Vermeil Tea Set by France's Premier French Silversmith Jean-Baptiste Odiot and an accompanying 950 sterling silver serving tray by French silversmith Henin – circa 1890s. The world of decorative arts has been enriched over centuries by the creations of remarkable artisans, whose skills and craftsmanship have left an indelible mark on history. Among these, the name Odiot stands as a testament to the heights that French silver-smithing can achieve. Jean-Baptiste-Claude Odiot (1763-1850) was an influential figure in the world of silver-smithing during the late 18th and early 19th centuries in France. His work not only epitomized the artistic and technical achievements of his time but also played a significant role in shaping the history of decorative arts in France.
Henin Freres, founded in the early 19th century, was one of the most distinguished silversmiths in France. The firm was established by brothers Louis-Nicolas and Jean-Baptiste Henin in Paris, 1823. Initially, the Henin brothers specialized in jewelry and small silver items, but their talent and dedication to the craft soon earned them recognition. Their work was characterized by intricate detailing and ornate designs, reflecting the artistic ethos of the Romantic era.
Jean-Baptiste-Claude Odiot attended the prestigious École des Beaux-Arts in Paris. This academic background enabled Odiot to fuse classical artistic elements with the technical precision of silversmithing, setting the stage for his innovative and influential career. Odiot's formal training also allowed him to gain a deeper appreciation for the fusion of art and craftsmanship, a principle that would become central to his work.
The Revolution's impact on the French monarchy led to the rise of Napoleon Bonaparte and the establishment of the French Empire. Odiot, like many other artisans of his time, adapted his work to suit the tastes of the empire. His neoclassical designs, with their classical references and grandeur, appealed to the new ruling elite. Napoleon himself was known to be a patron of Odiot, and many of the pieces produced during this period bore the imperial insignia. Henin & Cie's reputation for excellence in silversmithing also attracted a prestigious clientele from around the world. The firm supplied silverware to European royal courts, aristocrats, and even the Vatican, solidifying its status as one of the premier silversmiths of its time. This international recognition placed Henin & Cie at the pinnacle of the silversmithing industry.
Odiot's influence was not limited to France; his reputation extended to the international stage. He exported his works to clients throughout Europe and even across the Atlantic to the United States. Odiot's pieces became coveted treasures, sought after by collectors and connoisseurs across the world. This amazing 4pc. tea set by Odiot and the accompanying sterling silver serving tray by Henin are stunning examples of the quality and craftsmanship for which the firms were internationally known. There are no monograms on any of the pieces and each piece has been meticulously restored to like new condition.
The elegant Teapot is roughly 18.00cm. high to the top of the lid, approximately 24.00cm. across from the tip of the spout to the outside of the handle and weights 824 grams. The Coffee Pot stands roughly 24.00cm. high to the top of the lid, is approximately 20.50cm. across from the tip of the spout to the outside of the handle and weights 739 grams. The elegant Sugar Bowl with gold plated (vermeil) interior stands approximately 15.50cm. high to the top of the lid, roughly 15.50cm. across to the outside of the handles and weights 540 grams. The elegant Cream Pitcher with gold plated (vermeil) interior stand approximately 12.50m. high to the top of the spout, is roughly 17.00cm. across from the tip of the spout to the outside of the handle and weights 310 grams. Each of the above bears the French Government's Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark certifying a minimum of 950 sterling silver in addition to the Odiot sterling silver manufacturer's hallmark.
The massive serving tray is approximately 55.00cm. in length to the outside of the handles, 35.00cm. across at its widest point and weights approximately 2,300 grams. It bears the French Government's Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark, certifying a minimum of 950 sterling silver, in addition to the Henin sterling silver manufacturer's hallmark. Each piece also comes with its own anti-tarnish storage wrap for easy storage.
