Boin Taburet - Complete Table Service in 950 Sterling Silver, 322pc Flatware Set and 15pc Serving Platter Set

Direct from St. Tropez:  Direct from a private mansion in St. Tropez, a stunning 19th century 950 sterling silver and vermeil table service by premier French silversmith "Boin Taburet", consisting of a 322-piece flatware set plus a 15 piece Serving platter set in their classic shell pattern, absolutely magnificent, circa late 1890s. The 19th century represented a golden age for French decorative arts, particularly in the realm of silversmithing, where technical precision and artistic innovation converged to produce some of the most exquisite tableware in European history. Among the luminaries of this era, the Parisian firm Boin-Taburet emerged as a preeminent force, celebrated for its exceptional craftsmanship, royal patronage, and the enduring beauty of its silver creations. Specializing in sterling silver and vermeil flatware, as well as ornate serving pieces such as Louis XVI-style platters, Boin-Taburet’s work epitomized the elegance and sophistication of French luxury during a period marked by opulent dining culture and aristocratic refinement.

 

The Early Years:  The origins of Boin-Taburet can be traced to the early 19th century, a time when Paris reasserted itself as the epicenter of fine silver production following the upheavals of the French Revolution and the Napoleonic Wars. The firm’s exact founding date remains uncertain due to incomplete archival records, but it is widely accepted that it rose to prominence during the Bourbon Restoration (1814–1830) and the subsequent July Monarchy (1830–1848). These periods witnessed a resurgence of aristocratic wealth and a renewed demand for luxury goods, creating fertile ground for master silversmiths to thrive. 

 

Boin-Taburet distinguished itself early on by adhering to the highest standards of craftsmanship while embracing stylistic influences from both the Empire and Restoration periods. The firm’s name likely derives from its founders, though historical documentation regarding its earliest proprietors is sparse. What is clear, however, is that by the mid-19th century, Boin-Taburet had secured a place among the elite Parisian silversmiths, alongside illustrious contemporaries such as Odiot, Christofle, and Puiforcat. The firm’s workshops, likely located in the historic silversmithing district of the Marais, employed highly skilled artisans who specialized in forging, chasing, and gilding silver, ensuring that each piece met exacting standards. 

 

The 19th century was a transformative period for French silver, as the burgeoning bourgeoisie and the returning aristocracy sought tableware that reflected their social standing. Boin-Taburet responded to this demand by producing works that blended functionality with artistic grandeur. The firm’s designs frequently drew inspiration from the Louis XVI style, a neoclassical aesthetic characterized by symmetry, floral motifs, and restrained elegance. This stylistic choice not only aligned with the prevailing tastes of the time but also ensured that Boin-Taburet’s creations would remain timeless, transcending the fleeting trends that influenced other manufacturers. 

 

Focus on Quality:  The foundation of Boin-Taburet’s enduring reputation lay in its unwavering commitment to quality. Unlike many manufacturers who began to adopt industrial techniques in the latter half of the 19th century, Boin-Taburet remained steadfast in its dedication to traditional handcrafting methods. Each piece was meticulously shaped, engraved, and finished by master silversmiths who had undergone years, if not decades, of apprenticeship to perfect their skills. This painstaking approach ensured that every item bore the hallmarks of exceptional artistry - precise detailing, balanced proportions, and a flawless surface finish. 

 

A defining feature of Boin-Taburet’s work was its use of 950 sterling silver, a higher silver content than the standard 925 (Britannia silver) commonly used by other firms. This elevated purity not only enhanced the metal’s luster but also improved its resistance to tarnishing, making Boin-Taburet’s pieces particularly desirable for discerning clients. The firm’s Louis XVI-style serving platters, for example, were crafted from this superior alloy, resulting in pieces that were both visually striking and remarkably durable. These platters often featured elaborate chased borders adorned with acanthus leaves, floral swags, and scalloped edges, demonstrating the silversmiths’ ability to manipulate silver into intricate, three-dimensional forms. 

 

In addition to sterling silver, Boin-Taburet excelled in the production of vermeil - a technique that involved the application of a thick layer of gold over sterling silver through either fire-gilding or electrolysis. Vermeil flatware sets from the firm were especially prized for their dual-tone aesthetic, which combined the warmth of gold with the brilliance of silver. The gilding process was executed with such precision that even after extensive use, the gold layers remained intact, a testament to the firm’s superior craftsmanship. The firm’s vermeil pieces often featured delicate engravings and ornamental details, such as shell motifs and gadrooning, which further enhanced their luxurious appeal. 

 

Awards and Accolades:  Boin-Taburet’s mastery of silversmithing was formally recognized at several international exhibitions, which served as platforms for manufacturers to showcase their finest works and compete for prestigious awards. These events, including the Great Exhibition of 1851 in London and the Paris Expositions of 1855, 1867, and 1878, were instrumental in shaping the reputations of luxury artisans and firms. 

 

At the 1867 Paris Exposition Universelle, Boin-Taburet garnered significant acclaim for its sterling silver flatware and ornamental serving pieces. The jury praised the firm’s ability to harmonize traditional craftsmanship with innovative design, awarding it a medal for outstanding artistry. This accolade not only solidified Boin-Taburet’s standing among the leading silversmiths of the era but also attracted a global clientele, including wealthy patrons from Russia, England, and the Americas. The firm’s participation in these exhibitions also highlighted its adaptability to evolving tastes, as it successfully balanced neoclassical purity with the more elaborate revival styles that gained popularity during the Second Empire. 

 

The firm’s success at these exhibitions was not merely a matter of aesthetic achievement but also a reflection of its technical prowess. Boin-Taburet’s ability to produce large, flawless silver pieces - such as monumental centerpieces and multi-piece dining services - demonstrated its superior metallurgical expertise and organizational capacity. These feats of craftsmanship required not only skilled artisans but also sophisticated workshop practices, further distinguishing Boin-Taburet from lesser competitors.

 

Serving European Royalty:  The prestige of Boin-Taburet’s silver was such that it attracted the patronage of some of the most prominent figures of 19th-century Europe. The firm’s clientele included members of the French imperial family, high-ranking aristocrats, and wealthy industrialists who sought to emulate the lifestyles of the nobility.   Napoleon III and his court were among the most illustrious patrons of Boin-Taburet. The Second Empire (1852–1870) was a period of extravagant entertaining, and the imperial household required vast quantities of luxurious tableware for state banquets and diplomatic functions.

 

Beyond France, Boin-Taburet’s silver found favor among the Russian aristocracy, who were avid collectors of French luxury goods. The firm’s pieces were imported to St. Petersburg and Moscow, where they graced the tables of noble families such as the Yusupovs and the Sheremetevs. The Russian elite’s fondness for French silver was such that many services were custom-commissioned, often featuring engraved coats of arms or monograms to signify their distinguished ownership.  The firm’s ability to cater to such an exclusive clientele was a testament to its exceptional craftsmanship and its understanding of the symbolic power of silver. In an era when dining rituals were laden with social significance, possessing a Boin-Taburet service was not merely a matter of utility but a statement of refinement, wealth, and cultural sophistication. 

 

Boin-Taburet’s Serving Platters:  Among Boin-Taburet’s most celebrated creations were its Louis XVI-style serving platters, which embodied the neoclassical ideals of balance, proportion, and elegance. These platters were not merely functional objects but works of art, designed to serve as the centerpieces of formal dining tables.  Crafted from 950 sterling silver, these platters were distinguished by their substantial weight and flawless finish. The raised edges were often adorned with intricate chased patterns, such as laurel wreaths, Greek key motifs, and floral garlands, which demonstrated the silversmiths’ mastery of repoussé and chasing techniques. The central surfaces of the platters were typically left plain to highlight the natural sheen of the silver, though some bespoke examples featured engraved family crests or dedications. 

 

The Louis XVI platters were frequently part of larger serving sets that included matching tureens, sauce boats, and carving dishes and flatware sets – as with this amazing table service. These ensembles were designed to create a cohesive aesthetic for grand dinners, where the presentation of food was as important as its quality. The platters’ versatility also made them suitable for a variety of culinary uses, from presenting roasted meats to displaying elaborate desserts.  Today, Boin-Taburet’s Louis XVI platters are highly sought after by collectors, not only for their beauty but also for their historical significance. Well-preserved examples with provenance linking them to noble families command premium prices at auction, underscoring the enduring appeal of the firm’s work. 

 

Sterling & Vermeil Flatware Sets:  Boin-Taburet’s flatware sets represented the pinnacle of 19th-century dining luxury. These sets, which often included dozens of individual pieces, were crafted with the same attention to detail and commitment to quality that characterized the firm’s larger serving pieces.  The sterling silver flatware was distinguished by its elegant proportions and refined detailing. Patterns such as "Louis XVI" and "Antique" featured slender, tapering handles adorned with delicate engravings, while more elaborate designs incorporated shell motifs, gadrooning, and other ornamental elements. The balance and ergonomic precision of these utensils made them as practical as they were beautiful, ensuring a seamless dining experience. 

 

For clients seeking even greater opulence, Boin-Taburet offered vermeil flatware, where select elements - such as the handles or decorative bands - were gold-washed. The contrast between the gleaming gold and the cool silver created a striking visual effect, elevating the dining experience to new heights of sophistication. These sets were often commissioned for special occasions, such as weddings or diplomatic gifts, and were cherished as heirlooms. 

 

The Boin-Taburet Legacy:  Though the Boin-Taburet firm ceased operations in the late 19th or early 20th century, its legacy endures through the surviving pieces that grace museums and private collections. The rarity of its works, combined with their exceptional quality, ensures that they remain highly desirable among silver enthusiasts.  Modern collectors value Boin-Taburet silver not only for its beauty but also for its historical resonance. Each piece tells a story of 19th-century luxury, of banquets hosted by emperors and soirées attended by Europe’s elite. Furthermore, the firm’s adherence to 950 sterling silver makes its works particularly durable and resistant to wear, ensuring that they can be enjoyed for generations. 

 

Boin-Taburet stands as a paragon of 19th-century French silversmithing, a firm whose dedication to quality, artistry, and innovation earned it royal patronage and international acclaim. From its magnificent Louis XVI-style serving platters to its exquisite sterling silver and vermeil flatware, the company’s creations embody the pinnacle of luxury and craftsmanship. Today, these pieces are not merely antiques but enduring symbols of a bygone era when silver was more than tableware - it was a statement of refinement, power, and timeless elegance.  For collectors and historians alike, Boin-Taburet’s silver remains a testament to the golden age of French decorative arts, a legacy that continues to shine as brightly as the precious metals from which it was forged.

 

Set Specifications: This is an amazing table service set in excellent condition. The magnificent serving platter set consists of a 3-piece covered vegetable server, 5 oval serving platters, 4 round serving platters, 1 round serving dish and a 3-piece gravy boat in 950 sterling silver and hallmarked "Boin-Taburet". The covered vegetable server in 950 sterling silver measures roughly 31.50 cm. in length to the tips of the handles, approximately 21.00 cm. in diameter, 13.00 cm. in height and weights 1,493 grams.

 

The first oval serving platter measures roughly 50.00 cm. in length, approximately 34.00 cm. across at its widest point and weights 1,766 grams. The second oval serving platter measures roughly 50.00 cm. in length, approximately 34.00 cm. across at its widest point and weights 1,724 grams.  The third oval serving platter measures roughly 45.00 cm. in length, approximately 31.00 cm. across at its widest point and weights 1,282 grams. The fourth oval serving platter measures roughly 45.00 cm. in length, approximately 31.00 cm. across at its widest point and weights 1,311 grams.  The fifth oval serving platter measures roughly 40.00 cm. in length, approximately 28.00 cm. across at its widest point and weights 1,168 grams.

 

The first round serving platter measures roughly 33.00 cm. in diameter and weights 1,025 grams. The second round serving platter measures roughly 33.00 cm. in diameter and weights 1,055 grams. The third round serving platter measures roughly 29.00 cm. in diameter and weights 793 grams. The fourth round serving platter measures roughly 29.00 cm. in diameter and weights 792 grams.  The serving dish measures roughly 27.00 cm. in diameter. 4.5 cm, in height and weights 745 grams. The gravy boat with 950 sterling silver insert measures roughly 26.00 cm. in length, approximately 28.00 cm. across at its widest point, 18.00 cm. in height and weights 1,167 grams.

 

Each of the serving platter pieces is stamped on the underside with the French Government's Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark certifying a minimum of 950 sterling silver in addition to the Boin-Taburet sterling silver manufacturer's hallmark - "Boin Taburet a Paris" and each comes with its own anti-tarnish storage wrap for easy storage.

 

The 322pc flatware set (service for 24) with vermeil (gold plated 950 sterling silver) dessert pieces and the extra dinner forks and knives is perfect for entertaining larger groups. The mother-of-pearl handled cake knives with sterling silver blades is another rarity. The set is in excellent condition and the individual pieces are even more stunning than can be reflected by the photographs. The set is extremely good value for money. Except for the Mother-of-Pearl handled cake knives, each piece bears the French Government’s Head of the Minerva-1 Hallmark, signifying a minimum of 950 sterling, along with the Boin-Taburet manufacturer's hallmark. The Mother-of-Pearl handled cake knives also bears the French Government’s Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark on the blades certifying a minimum of 950 sterling silver along with the M.T. manufacturer's hallmark. The 322pc flatware set includes the following:

72 Dinner Knives 25.50 cm. 101 grams

72 Dinner Forks 20.80 cm. 100 grams

24 Tablespoons 21.20 cm. 98 grams

24 Luncheon Knives - Vermeil Handle Stainless Blade` 20.80 cm. 55 grams

24 Luncheon / Dessert Forks - Vermeil 18.50 cm. 60 grams

24 Luncheon / Dessert Spoons - Vermeil 19.00 cm. 61 grams

24 Dessert Knives - Vermeil 20.20 cm. 55 grams

24 Dessert Knives - Mother of Pearl Handles, Sterling Silver Blades 20.00 cm. 40 grams

24 Teaspoons - Vermeil 14.50 cm. 33 grams

1 Asparagus Server 24.50 cm. 192 grams

1 Large Soup / Stew Serving Ladle 31.00 cm. 238 grams

1 Berry Serving Spoon - Vermeil 20.80 cm. 98 grams

1 Ice Cream Serving Scoop - Vermeil 22.50 cm. 116 grams

1 Custard / Dessert Serving Scoop - Vermeil 22.50 cm. 106 grams

1 Salt Serving Spoon 8.50 cm. 9 grams

1 Small Dessert Serving Fork 15.00 cm. 34 grams

1 Olive Serving Spoon 15.00 cm. 40 grams

1 Individual Tart Server 15.50 cm. 41 grams

1 Small Dessert Serving Knife 17.00 cm. 40 grams