Christofle (Cardeilhac) - 4pc. Antique French Louis XVISterling Silver Tea Set + Serving Tray
Direct from Paris: A stunning 4pc. antique French sterling
silver tea set, Louis XVI model in excellent condition by France’s premier
silversmith “Christofle (Cardeilhac) – silversmith to the King – plus a
silver-plate serving tray. The French silversmithing industry has long been
synonymous with quality, elegance, and artistic craftsmanship. Among the many
revered names in this field, Cardeilhac stands out as a paragon of excellence.
Founded in 1804 by Antoine-Vital Cardeilhac, the Cardeilhac house became one of
the most distinguished silversmiths in France, renowned for their exquisite
designs, masterful craftsmanship, and illustrious clientele.
The Early Years: Antoine-Vital Cardeilhac established the
Cardeilhac firm in 1804 in Paris, a period marked by the resurgence of French
decorative arts following the turbulence of the French Revolution. His workshop
quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality silverware that combined
functionality with refined aesthetics. The hallmark of Cardeilhac's silverware
has always been its exceptional quality and craftsmanship. Each piece produced
by the firm was meticulously crafted by skilled artisans who were masters of
their trade. The silverware was known for its fine detailing, impeccable
finishes, and innovative designs. Cardeilhac's artisans employed a range of
techniques, including repoussé, chasing, engraving, and casting, to create
intricate patterns and textures on their pieces. These techniques required not
only technical skill but also a deep understanding of artistic composition and
design.
One of the most striking aspects of Cardeilhac's work is the balance they
achieved between form and function. While their pieces were undoubtedly
beautiful, they were also designed to be practical and durable. This was
particularly evident in their tea sets, which were not only exquisite works of
art but also highly functional items intended for everyday use. The teapots,
sugar bowls, and creamers produced by Cardeilhac were ergonomically designed,
with handles that were comfortable to hold and spouts that poured smoothly. The
attention to detail in these pieces extended to every aspect, from the
proportion of the handles to the fit of the lids.
Focus on Quality: Cardeilhac’s commitment to quality was also reflected in their
choice of materials. They used only the finest sterling silver, which was known
for its purity and durability. The firm was rigorous in its adherence to the
strict standards of French silver hallmarking, ensuring that every piece bore
the appropriate marks that attested to its authenticity and quality. This
dedication to excellence earned Cardeilhac a loyal clientele and a reputation as
one of the finest silversmiths in France.
Awards & Accolades: Throughout its history, the Cardeilhac firm
received numerous awards and accolades that recognized its outstanding
contributions to the art of silversmithing. The house first gained international
recognition at the Great Exhibition of 1851 in London, where they were awarded a
medal for the exceptional quality of their silverware. This event was one of the
first major international exhibitions of its kind, and Cardeilhac's success
there helped to establish their reputation on the global stage. Cardeilhac’s
participation in subsequent exhibitions further cemented their reputation. At
the 1867 Exposition Universelle in Paris, they were awarded another silver
medal, and at the 1878 Exposition Universelle, they received a gold medal. These
exhibitions provided a platform for Cardeilhac to showcase their most innovative
and exquisite pieces, often introducing new designs and techniques that would
influence the broader field of decorative arts.
One of the most prestigious accolades that Cardeilhac received came at the 1900
Exposition Universelle in Paris, where they were awarded the Grand Prix. This
was the highest honor bestowed at the exhibition, recognizing Cardeilhac’s
unrivaled mastery of silversmithing. The 1900 Exposition Universelle was a
particularly important event, marking the turn of the century and celebrating
the achievements of the Belle Époque. Cardeilhac’s triumph at this event was a
fitting culmination of their years of dedication to excellence.
Serving European Royalty: Cardeilhac’s reputation for
quality and craftsmanship attracted the attention of some of the most
illustrious figures of the time, including members of royal families and the
European aristocracy. Royal patronage was a mark of distinction that elevated
the status of any firm, and Cardeilhac was no exception. Their silverware was
favored by several European monarchs, who appreciated the firm’s commitment to
excellence and artistry.
One of the most notable patrons of Cardeilhac was King Louis-Philippe I of
France, who reigned from 1830 to 1848. Known as the "Citizen King,"
Louis-Philippe sought to modernize the monarchy and foster a more inclusive
relationship between the crown and the people. As part of his efforts to promote
French industry and craftsmanship, he commissioned numerous works from leading
artists and artisans, including Cardeilhac. The firm created several pieces for
the royal household, including ornate silverware that was used for state
banquets and other official functions.
Cardeilhac’s association with the French monarchy extended beyond
Louis-Philippe. The firm also produced silverware for Napoleon III, the last
Emperor of France, who reigned from 1852 to 1870. Napoleon III was a great
patron of the arts, and his reign saw a flourishing of French decorative arts
and architecture. Cardeilhac’s work during this period reflected the opulence
and grandeur of the Second Empire style, characterized by its elaborate
ornamentation and rich detailing. In addition to their royal clientele,
Cardeilhac’s silverware was also highly sought after by the European aristocracy
and wealthy industrialists. The firm’s reputation for quality and exclusivity
made their pieces highly desirable, and owning Cardeilhac silverware became a
symbol of status and refinement. This prestigious clientele helped to ensure the
firm’s continued success and contributed to its legacy as one of the foremost
silversmiths of the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Cardeilhac's Sterling Tea Sets: Among the many types of
silverware produced by Cardeilhac, their sterling silver tea sets are
particularly noteworthy. These tea sets are celebrated not only for their beauty
and craftsmanship but also for their innovative designs that reflected the
changing tastes of the time. Cardeilhac’s tea sets were the epitome of elegance,
combining artistic flair with practicality. The design of Cardeilhac’s tea sets
evolved over the years, reflecting the broader trends in French decorative arts.
In the early 19th century, their tea sets were influenced by the neoclassical
style, characterized by simple, elegant forms and motifs inspired by antiquity.
These early tea sets often featured fluted bodies, delicate garlands, and
acanthus leaf decorations, all executed with a precision and attention to detail
that set them apart from their contemporaries.
As the century progressed, Cardeilhac embraced the more ornate and elaborate
designs of the Second Empire period. Their tea sets from this era are
characterized by their rich ornamentation, often featuring intricate repoussé
work, chased floral patterns, and gilded accents. The handles and spouts of the
teapots were often elaborately shaped, sometimes taking the form of animal heads
or mythical creatures, adding a whimsical touch to the pieces. The Belle Époque
period, which spanned the late 19th and early 20th centuries, saw a shift
towards more refined and elegant designs. Cardeilhac’s tea sets from this period
are characterized by their graceful lines, smooth surfaces, and understated
decoration. The Art Nouveau movement, which emerged during this time, had a
significant influence on Cardeilhac’s designs. Their tea sets began to feature
flowing, organic forms, with motifs inspired by nature, such as flowers, leaves,
and vines. This style was a departure from the more rigid and symmetrical
designs of the past, reflecting a new appreciation for natural beauty and
artistic expression.
Cardeilhac’s tea sets were not only visually stunning but also highly
functional. The firm paid great attention to the ergonomics of their designs,
ensuring that their teapots were easy to handle and pour. The lids of the
teapots were often hinged, allowing them to be opened and closed with one hand,
a feature that was both practical and innovative. The sugar bowls and creamers
were similarly well-designed, with lids that fit snugly and handles that were
comfortable to hold. One of the most remarkable aspects of Cardeilhac’s tea sets
is the way they combined different techniques and materials to create a
harmonious whole. The firm often used a combination of sterling silver and other
materials, such as ivory, ebony, and mother-of-pearl, to create contrast and
visual interest. The use of gilding was also common, adding a touch of luxury to
the pieces. These elements were all brought together with a masterful sense of
proportion and balance, resulting in tea sets that were not only beautiful but
also cohesive and harmonious.
The Cardeilhac Legacy: Today, Cardeilhac’s sterling silver tea
sets are highly prized by collectors and connoisseurs of fine silverware. They
are considered masterpieces of French silversmithing, embodying the best of the
firm’s craftsmanship and artistic vision. These tea sets are a testament to
Cardeilhac’s enduring legacy and their contribution to the world of decorative
arts. The legacy of Cardeilhac as a premier French silversmith is a testament to
their unwavering commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and artistic excellence.
From their origins in the early 19th century to their zenith in the Belle
Époque, Cardeilhac consistently produced silverware that was both beautiful and
functional, earning them numerous awards and accolades. Their work was favored
by royalty and the elite, further cementing their status as one of the most
distinguished silversmiths of their time.
Set Specifications: This magnificent 4pc. sterling silver tea
set with accompanying silver-plate serving tray is a stunning example of the
quality and craftsmanship for which the firm is internationally known.
Exemplary works of art, combining intricate design with practical functionality,
Cardeilhac sterling tea sets remain highly sought after today, cherished by
collectors for their timeless beauty and the skill with which they were crafted.
The name Cardeilhac has become synonymous with the highest standards of French
silversmithing, and their legacy continues to be celebrated by those who
appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship of fine silverware. This set is in
excellent condition and each piece comes with its own anti-tarnish storage wrap
for easy storage.
The elegant teapot stands roughly 15.00 cm. in height to the top of the lid,
measures 20.50 cm. across from the top of the spout to the outside of the handle
and weights 474 grams. It is stamped “Cardeilhac Paris” on the underside and
bears the French Government’s Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark in addition to the
Ernst Cardeilhac sterling silver manufacturer’s hallmark. The stunning coffee
pot is approximately 17.50 cm. high to the top of the lid, measures 17.00 cm.
across from the top of the spout to the outside of the handle and weights 424
grams. It is stamped “Cardeilhac Paris” on the underside and bears the French
Government’s Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark ina ddition to the Ernst Cardeilhac
sterling silver manufacturer’s hallmark.
The gorgeous sugar bowl is roughly 12.00 cm. high to the top of the lid, 13.50
cm. across to the outside of the handles and weights 373 grams. It is stamped
“Cardeilhac Paris” on the underside and bears the French Government’s Head of
the Minerva 1 hallmark in addition to the Ernst Cardeilhac sterling silver
manufacturer’s hallmark. The dainty cream pitcher is roughly 9.50 cm. high to
the top of the spout, measures 12.50 cm. across form the tip of the spout to the
outside of the handle and weights 169 grams. It is stamped “Cardeilhac Paris” on
the underside and bears the French Government’s Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark
in addition to the Ernst Cardeilhac sterling silver manufacturer’s hallmark. The
massive serving tray is silver-plate and measures 57.00 cm. in length to the
outside of the handles, 38.00 cm. wide at is widest point and weights 2.225
grams.
