Direct from Paris, A Magnificent 4 pc. 19th Century 950 Sterling Silver Louis XVI Gravy Boat with Presentation Platter and Two Sterling Silver Inserts and Noble Crest by the World's Premier French Silversmith Jean-Baptiste Odiot, Absolutely Stunning - circa late 1800s. Jean-Baptiste Claude Odiot, an illustrious French silversmith, significantly influenced the decorative arts in Europe during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. His remarkable craftsmanship, innovative designs, and the opulence of his creations earned him an esteemed place amongst the royal and aristocratic patrons of his time.
Born in 1763 in Paris, Jean-Baptiste Claude Odiot was destined to be a silversmith, a craft that ran in his family. He apprenticed under his grandfather, Jean-Baptiste Gaspard Odiot, and later under the renowned silversmith Jean-Baptiste-Claude Roettiers. This training period was crucial as it grounded him in the traditional techniques of the trade while also exposing him to the evolving tastes of the French aristocracy, preparing him for a successful career.
Odiot's work was marked by meticulous attention to detail and a robust embrace of the neoclassical style, which became prevalent in the late 18th century. His ability to blend artistic beauty with functional design set his pieces apart. Odiot introduced a range of innovative techniques in silverwork, including his use of the repoussé method to create intricate raised patterns, and chasing, to refine and detail these designs. His mastery over silver casting and gilding also allowed him to produce pieces with exceptional quality and durability, making them highly prized collectibles.
The prestige of Jean-Baptiste Odiot was significantly enhanced by his association with European royalty. His rise to fame coincided with the period of Napoleon Bonaparte, who was an avid patron of the arts. Odiot received substantial commissions from the imperial family, including a famous 179-piece dinner service for Napoleon’s wedding to Marie-Louise of Austria in 1810. This patronage not only secured Odiot's financial success but also established his reputation as a purveyor of luxury goods suitable for the highest echelons of society.
Recognition of Odiot's talent came not only from his royal and aristocratic patrons but also from various artistic institutions. He was awarded the Legion of Honour by Napoleon, a testament to his influence and status in the arts. Moreover, Odiot's participation in exhibitions, such as the Exposition des Produits de l'Industrie Française, garnered him critical acclaim, enhancing his stature and legacy in the decorative arts. Among Odiot's diverse oeuvre, his sterling silver gravy servers stand out for their exquisite design and functional elegance. These pieces reflect his innovative approach to everyday objects, transforming them into works of art. Typically featuring ornate handles and a beautifully curved body, these gravy servers exemplify the luxurious style characteristic of Odiot’s production. They are not merely utensils but are reflective of a dining culture that celebrated opulence and sophistication at the table.
Jean-Baptiste Odiot’s contribution to the world of silver-smithing goes beyond the physical creations he left behind. His work represents a pivotal moment in the history of decorative arts, where craftsmanship met creativity to define the luxury standards of an era. Through his innovative techniques, royal commissions, and the enduring beauty of his silver works, Odiot not only carved a niche for himself during his lifetime but also set standards that future generations of silversmiths would aspire to. His legacy, marked by excellence and elegance, continues to inspire admiration and respect in the art of silversmithing today.
This magnificent 4pc. gravy boat with two 950 sterling silver inserts and gorgeous presentation platter measures roughly 12cm. in height, the platter is roughly 26cm. in length and 17.50cm. across at its widest point. The Gravy Boat if approximately 21.00cm. in length, 13.50cm across at its widest point and the total weight of the 4 pieces is 1,366 grams. Each of the 4 pieces 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 and is stamped "Odiot a Paris" on the underside. In addition, each piece is engraved with the Noble family's Coat of Arms.
