Tetard Freres - Two antique French 950 Louis XVI Sterling silver candelabra
Direct from Paris:
A stunning pair of original 950 sterling silver Louis XVI 4-candle candelabra in
superb condition by one of France’s premier silversmiths "Tetard Frères", and
includes two anti-tarnish storage wraps for easy storage - circa early 1900s.
The art of French silversmithing during the 19th century represents one
of the most refined and sophisticated periods in the history of decorative arts.
This era, marked by the transition from neoclassicism to eclecticism, saw the
rise of numerous workshops that pushed the boundaries of craftsmanship, design,
and technical innovation. Among these, the Parisian firm Tetard Frères emerged
as one of the most distinguished silversmithing houses, celebrated for its
exceptional quality, intricate artistry, and prestigious clientele. The firm’s
reputation was built upon its mastery of high-grade sterling silver,
particularly its use of the luxurious 950 standard, as well as its ability to
create pieces that balanced functionality with breathtaking ornamentation. One
of their most iconic creations, the four-candle candelabra in 950 sterling
silver, exemplifies the height of their technical skill and artistic vision.
Excellence in
Silversmithing:
The origins of Tetard Frères can be
traced to early 19th-century Paris, a city that was then the epicenter of luxury
craftsmanship and artistic innovation. The firm was established during a period
of great transformation in French decorative arts, influenced by the aftermath
of the French Revolution and the rise of the Napoleonic Empire, which revived
interest in opulent and imperial aesthetics. Tetard Frères quickly distinguished
itself from competitors by adhering to the highest standards of silversmithing,
employing only the most skilled artisans and utilizing superior materials.
Beyond their technical
prowess, Tetard Frères was known for their stylistic versatility. Their work
reflected the evolving tastes of the 19th century, from the restrained elegance
of the Empire style to the more exuberant and naturalistic designs of the Rococo
Revival. This adaptability ensured that their creations remained fashionable
among the elite, who demanded both timeless beauty and contemporary
sophistication. The firm’s output included a wide range of objects, from tea and
coffee services to elaborate centerpieces and, most notably, their magnificent
candelabra, which became symbols of wealth and refinement.
Innovative
Craftsmanship:
The silversmiths at Tetard Frères were masters of both traditional and
innovative techniques, blending time-honored methods with creative approaches to
design. Each piece was meticulously crafted by hand, with particular emphasis on
repoussé, a technique in which metal is shaped by hammering from the reverse
side to create intricate relief designs. This method allowed for the creation of
dynamic, three-dimensional motifs, such as scrolling foliage, mythological
figures, and elaborate floral arrangements, which were hallmarks of their work.
Chasing, another critical
technique employed by the firm, involved refining the details of a repoussé
design by working on the front surface with finely crafted tools. This process
added depth and texture, enhancing the visual appeal of each piece. Engraving
was also a vital component of their craftsmanship, used to inscribe delicate
patterns, monograms, or dedications that personalized objects for their
aristocratic owners. The combination of these techniques resulted in silverware
that was not only functional but also a testament to the artistic vision of its
creators.
A particularly noteworthy
aspect of Tetard Frères’ work was their ability to balance ornamentation with
practicality. Unlike some silversmiths who prioritized decorative excess, the
firm ensured that every embellishment served a purpose, whether in reinforcing
the structure of a piece or enhancing its aesthetic harmony. This philosophy is
evident in their candelabra, where the curvature of the arms, the weight
distribution of the base, and the placement of decorative elements were all
carefully considered to create a piece that was as stable as it was beautiful.
The production of their
renowned four-candle candelabra, for example, required not only artistic skill
but also engineering precision. The central column had to support the weight of
the arms and candles without bending, while the base needed sufficient heft to
prevent tipping. The firm achieved this through a combination of expert
metalwork and thoughtful design, often incorporating weighted cores within the
base that were concealed beneath ornate silver shells. Such innovations
demonstrated their ability to merge form and function seamlessly.
Awards and Accolades:
Throughout the 19th century, Tetard Frères participated in several prestigious
industrial exhibitions, where their work was consistently met with critical
acclaim. These exhibitions, particularly the Exposition Universelle held in
Paris in 1855, 1867, and 1878, were platforms for the finest artisans and
manufacturers to showcase their creations to an international audience. The
firm’s participation in these events not only elevated their reputation but also
provided opportunities to attract high-profile commissions.
At the 1867 Exposition
Universelle, Tetard Frères received a silver medal, a significant honor that
recognized their contributions to the decorative arts. Their display likely
included a range of their most exceptional pieces, such as intricately designed
tea sets, opulent centerpieces, and, of course, their sterling silver
candelabra. The jury, composed of art critics, fellow craftsmen, and members of
the aristocracy, would have evaluated their work based on criteria such as
technical skill, innovation, and aesthetic appeal. The fact that Tetard Frères
was awarded a medal speaks to their standing as one of the leading
silversmithing firms of the era.
Beyond these grand
exhibitions, the firm also garnered recognition through more specialized
competitions and salons. Their pieces were frequently featured in luxury
catalogs and were sought after by private collectors and institutions alike. The
accolades they received were not merely ceremonial; they had tangible benefits,
reinforcing the firm’s prestige and driving demand among the elite.
Serving European
Royalty:
The prestige of Tetard Frères was further cemented by their association
with European royalty and aristocracy. French nobility, particularly during the
Second Empire under Napoleon III, had a profound appreciation for fine
silverware, and the firm was among the select few workshops entrusted with
creating pieces for the imperial household. Empress Eugénie, known for her
refined taste and patronage of the arts, was a particularly influential client
whose preferences helped shape trends in luxury craftsmanship.
In addition to French
royalty, Tetard Frères’ work found favor among the Russian imperial court, where
French silver was highly prized for its elegance and sophistication. The firm’s
candelabra and other decorative objects were likely displayed in the grand
palaces of St. Petersburg and Moscow, serving as symbols of wealth and cultural
refinement. The international appeal of their work was a testament to their
ability to transcend national boundaries and cater to the tastes of a diverse
and discerning clientele. The firm’s
connections with aristocracy extended beyond commissions; many of their pieces
were gifted as diplomatic presents or as part of dowries, further enhancing
their prestige. The presence of Tetard Frères silver in royal inventories and
estate records underscores their importance in 19th-century luxury markets.
950 Sterling
Candelabra:
Among the most celebrated works of Tetard Frères is their four-candle
candelabra, a masterpiece of 19th-century silversmithing that embodies the
firm’s technical mastery and artistic vision. These candelabra were not merely
functional objects but were designed to serve as focal points in the grand
interiors of aristocratic homes, reflecting the wealth and sophistication of
their owners. The design of these
candelabra typically featured a central column adorned with intricate motifs,
often inspired by nature or classical mythology. The arms, which extended
gracefully from the stem, were carefully proportioned to ensure balance, both
visually and structurally. Detachable bobeches, or drip pans, were a common
feature, allowing for easy maintenance while also adding an additional
decorative element.
One of the most
remarkable aspects of these candelabra was their use of asymmetry, a
characteristic of the Rococo Revival style that was particularly popular in
mid-19th-century France. Unlike the rigid symmetry of earlier neoclassical
designs, Tetard Frères’ candelabra often incorporated dynamic curves and organic
forms, creating a sense of movement and vitality. This stylistic choice
reflected broader trends in decorative arts, where there was a growing
preference for more fluid and expressive designs.
From a technical
standpoint, the production of these candelabra was a complex process that
required advanced metallurgical knowledge. The high silver content (950) meant
that the metal was softer and more malleable than standard sterling,
necessitating expert handling to prevent warping or cracking during shaping. The
firm’s silversmiths employed raised construction techniques, where the
candelabra was built from multiple hammered and soldered components rather than
cast as a single piece. This method allowed for greater detail and a lighter
overall weight without sacrificing durability.
The Tetard Legacy:
Today, Tetard Frères’ candelabra are highly sought after by collectors
and museums. Their rarity, combined with their historical significance, makes
them prized acquisitions at auctions. Pieces bearing the Tetard Frères hallmark
- typically a signature stamp with the firm’s name and the Minerva head (the
French silver standard mark) - command premium prices, often exceeding tens of
thousands of dollars depending on condition and provenance.
Tetard Frères remains one of the most illustrious names in 19th-century
French silversmithing, a firm whose work epitomized the fusion of artistry and
technical excellence. Their 950 sterling silver candelabra stand as enduring
symbols of their craftsmanship, admired for their beauty, functionality, and
historical importance. Through their award-winning exhibitions, royal patronage,
and unwavering commitment to quality, Tetard Frères secured a permanent place in
the annals of decorative arts.
For collectors and
historians alike, their pieces are not merely antiques but testaments to a
golden age of silversmithing, where every hammer stroke and engraved line
reflected a dedication to perfection that continues to inspire admiration
centuries later. The legacy of Tetard Frères serves as a reminder of the
enduring value of craftsmanship and the timeless appeal of objects created with
both skill and passion.
Set Specifications:
This amazing set of candelabra is a stunning example of the fine
workmanship and quality for which the firm was internationally acclaimed.
Each piece is stamped on the base with the French Government's Head of
the Minerva 1 hallmark certifying a minimum of 950 sterling silver in addition
to the Tetard Frères' manufacturer's sterling silver hallmark, and each comes
with its own anti-tarnish wrap for easy storage.
Candelabra #1 stands
approximately 28.00 cm. high, is roughly 25.00 cm. across and weights 1,145
grams. Candelabra #2 also stands
approximately 28.00 cm. high, is roughly 25.00 cm. across and weights 1,145
grams.
