Puiforcat Hermes 6pc Empire Styly sterling silver tea set
Direct from private mansion in Paris, a magnificent 6 piece antique French
sterling silver Empire style tea set by France’s premier silversmith “Puiforcat”
– currently owned by Hermes. The art of silversmithing has long been a hallmark
of French craftsmanship, embodying the nation's rich cultural heritage and its
unwavering commitment to luxury and quality. Among the most illustrious names in
this venerable tradition is Puiforcat, a brand synonymous with excellence,
innovation, and timeless elegance. Founded in the early 19th century, Puiforcat
has established itself as a paragon of fine silverware, producing pieces that
are not only functional but also works of art.
The story of Puiforcat begins in 1820 when Jean-Baptiste Fuchs established a
silversmith workshop in Paris. The brand quickly gained recognition for its
exceptional craftsmanship and innovative designs, attracting a discerning
clientele that included royalty, aristocrats, and wealthy industrialists. At the
heart of Puiforcat's enduring appeal is its unwavering commitment to quality and
craftsmanship. Each piece of Puiforcat silverware is a testament to the skill
and dedication of the artisans who create it. The brand's workshops are a blend
of traditional techniques and modern technology, ensuring that every item meets
the highest standards of excellence.
The process of crafting Puiforcat silverware is labor-intensive and requires a
high degree of precision. Each piece is meticulously shaped, polished, and
finished by hand, with artisans often spending hundreds of hours on a single
item. The attention to detail is
evident in every aspect of Puiforcat's creations, from the intricate engraving
and chasing to the flawless mirror-like finish. The brand's commitment to
quality extends to its selection of materials, with only the finest silver,
gold, and precious stones used in its designs. This dedication to excellence has
earned Puiforcat a reputation as one of the world's premier silversmiths, with
its pieces coveted by collectors and connoisseurs alike.
Throughout its history, Puiforcat has been the recipient of numerous awards and
accolades, cementing its status as a leader in the field of fine silverware. The
brand's achievements have been recognized at prestigious international
exhibitions and fairs, where its creations have consistently garnered praise for
their artistry and craftsmanship.
One of the most significant milestones in Puiforcat's history came in 1925, when
the brand was awarded the Grand Prix at the Exposition Internationale des Arts
Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes in Paris. This prestigious award was a
testament to Puiforcat's innovative designs and its ability to blend tradition
with modernity. The Exposition Internationale was a defining moment for the Art
Deco movement, and Puiforcat's success at the event solidified its reputation as
a pioneer of the style. In addition
to its Grand Prix win, Puiforcat has received numerous other honors, including
awards from the Société des Artistes Français and the Legion of Honor. These
accolades are a reflection of the brand's commitment to excellence and its
contributions to the field of decorative arts. Puiforcat's achievements have
also been recognized by the French government, which has designated the brand as
a "Living Heritage Company" (Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant), a distinction
that underscores its role in preserving and promoting France's artisanal
traditions.
Puiforcat's reputation for excellence and its commitment to the highest
standards of craftsmanship have earned it the patronage of royalty and
aristocrats throughout Europe. The brand's creations have graced the tables of
some of the most illustrious royal families, cementing its status as a purveyor
of luxury and refinement. One of the
most notable examples of Puiforcat's royal patronage is its association with the
French imperial family. During the reign of Napoleon III, Puiforcat was
commissioned to create a series of exquisite silverware pieces for the imperial
court. These pieces, characterized by their opulent designs and meticulous
craftsmanship, were used in state banquets and official ceremonies, reflecting
the grandeur and sophistication of the French Empire.
In addition to its ties with the French imperial family, Puiforcat has
also enjoyed the patronage of other European royal families. The brand's
creations have been favored by the British royal family, with several pieces
being used in royal households and official events. The British royal family's
appreciation for Puiforcat's craftsmanship is a testament to the brand's ability
to create pieces that embody timeless elegance and sophistication.
Puiforcat's royal patronage extends beyond France and Britain to other European
monarchies. The brand has been commissioned by the Spanish royal family to
create bespoke silverware pieces for use in the Royal Palace of Madrid. These
pieces, crafted from 950 sterling silver, are adorned with intricate engravings
and embellishments that reflect the rich cultural heritage of Spain.
The brand's association with European royal families is not limited to
the past; it continues to this day. Puiforcat's creations are still sought after
by royalty and aristocrats who appreciate the brand's commitment to quality and
craftsmanship. The brand's ability to maintain its royal patronage over the
centuries is a testament to its enduring appeal and its status as a symbol of
luxury and refinement.
In 1993, Puiforcat became part of the Hermès Group, a move that further elevated
the brand's status and expanded its reach in the luxury market. Hermès, renowned
for its commitment to quality and craftsmanship, recognized in Puiforcat a
kindred spirit and a shared dedication to excellence. The association with
Hermès has allowed Puiforcat to leverage the group's resources and expertise
while maintaining its independence and artistic integrity.
The partnership with Hermès has also provided Puiforcat with access to a
global network of boutiques and clients, enabling the brand to showcase its
creations to a wider audience. Despite its integration into the Hermès Group,
Puiforcat has retained its distinctive identity and continues to produce
silverware that reflects its unique heritage and vision. The collaboration
between Puiforcat and Hermès is a testament to the enduring appeal of fine
craftsmanship and the importance of preserving traditional artisanal skills in a
rapidly changing world.
Among Puiforcat's most iconic creations are the Empire model tea sets, like this
amazing 6-piece set, which exemplify the brand's mastery of design and
craftsmanship. Inspired by the neoclassical style of the Napoleonic era, the
Empire collection is characterized by its elegant lines, symmetrical forms, and
intricate detailing. The tea sets are crafted from 950 sterling silver, a
material that enhances their beauty and ensures their longevity.
The Empire tea sets are a perfect blend of form and function, with each
piece designed to enhance the tea-drinking experience. The teapots, sugar bowls,
creamers, and trays are meticulously proportioned and balanced, making them both
practical and aesthetically pleasing. The handles and spouts are ergonomically
designed for ease of use, while the lids fit snugly to preserve the temperature
of the tea.
One of the most striking features of the Empire tea sets is their decorative
elements, which include finely chased patterns, engraved motifs, and
hand-applied gilding. These embellishments add a touch of opulence to the sets,
making them true works of art. The attention to detail is evident in every
aspect of the design, from the delicate fluting on the teapot's body to the
intricate handles shaped like laurel leaves.
The Empire tea sets are not merely functional objects; they are symbols
of refinement and sophistication. They evoke a sense of timeless elegance and
are a testament to Puiforcat's ability to create pieces that transcend trends
and fashions. The sets are often passed down through generations, becoming
cherished family heirlooms that embody the enduring legacy of French
silversmithing.
Puiforcat stands as a shining example of French silversmithing at its finest.
With a history that spans nearly two centuries, the brand has consistently
upheld the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship, earning it a place
among the world's most prestigious luxury brands. From its early days as a small
workshop in Paris to its current status as a member of the Hermès Group,
Puiforcat has remained true to its founding principles of excellence,
innovation, and artistry. The
brand's numerous awards and accolades are a testament to its contributions to
the field of decorative arts, while its association with Hermès has provided it
with a platform to showcase its creations on a global stage. The Empire model
tea sets, crafted from 950 sterling silver, are a perfect embodiment of
Puiforcat's commitment to beauty, functionality, and timeless design.
Puiforcat's royal patronage and associations with European royal families
further underscore its status as a purveyor of luxury and refinement. The
brand's creations have graced the tables of some of the most illustrious royal
households, reflecting its enduring appeal and its ability to create pieces that
transcend time and trends. In a
world where mass production and disposable goods have become the norm, Puiforcat
serves as a reminder of the enduring value of fine craftsmanship and the
importance of preserving traditional artisanal skills. Each piece of Puiforcat
silverware is not just an object; it is a work of art, a testament to the skill
and dedication of the artisans who create it, and a celebration of the rich
cultural heritage of French silversmithing. As Puiforcat continues to innovate
and inspire, it remains a beacon of excellence in the world of luxury and a
symbol of the enduring allure of fine silverware.
This is an absolutely stunning Tea set in near new condition.
Each piece has been professionally refinished to near new condition and
is a testament to the quality and craftsmanship for which Puiforcat is
international known and there are no monograms on any of the pieces.
The elegant sugar bowl is roughly 17.50 cm. high to the top of the lid,
approximately 15.00 cm. across to the outside of the handles and weights 467
grams. It
bears the French Government’s Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark in addition to the
Puiforcat sterling silver manufacturer’s hallmark and is stamped on the
underside “Puiforcat Paris”. The stately coffee pot stands approximately
31.00 cm. high to the top of the lid, is roughly 21.50cm. across from the tip of
the spout to the outside of the handle and weights 843 grams.
It also bears the French Government’s Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark in
addition to the Puiforcat sterling silver manufacturer’s hallmark and is stamped
on the underside “Puiforcat Paris”. The magnificent teapot is roughly 21.00cm.
high to the top of the lid, 24.50cm. across from the tip of the spout to the
outside of the handle and weights 767 grams.
It also bears the French Government’s Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark in
addition to the Puiforcat sterling silver manufacturer’s hallmark and is stamped
on the underside “Puiforcat Paris”. The dainty cream pitcher is approximately
15.50cm. high to the top of the spout, 11.50cm across from the tip of the spout
to the outside of the handle and weights 286 grams.
It bears the French Government’s Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark in
addition to the Puiforcat sterling silver manufacturer’s hallmark and is stamped
on the underside “Puiforcat Paris”. The “hot chocolate server” stands roughly
29.50cm. high to the top of the lid, 18.00cm. across from the tip of the spout
to the outside of the handle and weights 573 grams.
It is stamped with the French governments Old Man hallmark (1819-1838) in
addition to the Minerva 1 hallmark.
The manufacturer’s sterling silver hallmark is illegible. The massive serving
tray is approximately 66.50cm. in length, 40.00cm. across at is widest point and
weights a stunning 2,700 + grams. It
is stamped with the French Government’s Mercury 1 hallmark (1878-1973) but the
manufacturer’s sterling silver hallmark is illegible.
