Keller - 8pc. Louis XVI 19th Century 950 Sterling Silver Tea Set, Museum Quality

Direct from Paris, a gorgeous 19th century Louis XVI, 8 pc. 950 sterling silver the / coffee set by one of France's premier silversmiths, Gustave Keller.  The set is in like new condition and includes a large sterling silver serving tray and 7 anti-tarnish storage wraps for easy storage - Circa 1890s.  The art of silversmithing has long been a hallmark of French craftsmanship, embodying the nation's rich cultural heritage and artistic excellence. Among the luminaries of this venerable tradition, Gustave Keller stands out as a paragon of skill, innovation, and elegance. Active during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Keller's work epitomizes the fusion of technical mastery and aesthetic refinement that characterizes the finest French silverware.

Gustave Keller was born in the mid-19th century, a period marked by significant social, political, and artistic transformations in France. The aftermath of the French Revolution and the rise of the bourgeoisie created a new market for luxury goods, including silverware. Keller emerged as a prominent figure in this milieu, establishing himself as a master silversmith whose work would grace the tables of royalty and aristocracy.  Keller's apprenticed under some of the most esteemed silversmiths in Paris, the epicenter of French silversmithing. By the late 19th century, he had established his own workshop, where he produced a wide range of silver items, from tableware to decorative objects. His work quickly gained recognition for its exceptional quality and artistic merit, earning him a distinguished clientele and numerous accolades.

The hallmark of Gustave Keller's work is its unparalleled quality and craftsmanship. Keller was a perfectionist, and his pieces reflect a meticulous attention to detail and a deep understanding of the properties of silver. He worked primarily in 950 sterling silver, a high-grade alloy containing 95% pure silver, which is renowned for its luster, durability, and workability. This choice of material allowed Keller to create pieces that were not only beautiful but also functional and long-lasting.  Keller's craftsmanship is evident in every aspect of his work, from the precision of his engraving to the elegance of his designs. He was particularly known for his ability to blend traditional techniques with innovative approaches, resulting in pieces that were both timeless and contemporary. His tea sets, for example, often feature intricate floral motifs, delicate chasing, and finely detailed handles and spouts, all executed with a level of skill that is truly remarkable.  One of the most striking aspects of Keller's work is his ability to imbue his pieces with a sense of movement and life. This is particularly evident in his Louis XVI model tea sets, where the curves and lines of the silverware seem to flow seamlessly, creating a harmonious and dynamic composition. The result is a collection of pieces that are not only functional but also works of art in their own right.

Gustave Keller's reputation for excellence soon attracted the attention of royalty and aristocracy. His work was highly sought after by European nobility, who appreciated the combination of luxury and artistry that his pieces embodied. Among his most notable patrons were members of the French royal family, who commissioned Keller to create bespoke silverware for their palaces and estates.  Keller's royal patronage was a testament to his status as one of the leading silversmiths of his time. His ability to cater to the tastes and preferences of his elite clientele, while maintaining the highest standards of craftsmanship, set him apart from his contemporaries. His work was not only a symbol of wealth and status but also a reflection of the cultural and artistic values of the French aristocracy.  One of the most significant commissions Keller received was from the court of Louis XVI. The king, known for his appreciation of fine art and craftsmanship, was particularly fond of Keller's work and commissioned a series of tea sets in the Louis XVI style – like this magnificent set. These sets, which are among Keller's most celebrated creations, exemplify the elegance and sophistication of French silversmithing during this period.

Throughout his career, Gustave Keller received numerous awards and accolades, both in France and internationally. His work was regularly exhibited at prestigious events such as the Exposition Universelle in Paris, where it was met with critical acclaim. These exhibitions provided Keller with a platform to showcase his talent and to gain recognition from his peers and the public alike.  One of the most significant honors Keller received was the Grand Prix at the 1900 Exposition Universelle in Paris. This award, which was the highest accolade at the event, was a testament to Keller's exceptional skill and artistry. It also cemented his reputation as one of the leading silversmiths of his generation.  In addition to the Grand Prix, Keller received numerous other awards and medals throughout his career. These included the Gold Medal at the 1889 Exposition Universelle, the Silver Medal at the 1894 Exposition Internationale in Lyon, and the Legion of Honor, one of France's highest civilian awards. These accolades not only recognized Keller's contributions to the field of silversmithing but also highlighted the importance of French craftsmanship on the global stage.

Among Gustave Keller's most iconic creations are his 950 sterling silver Louis XVI model tea sets. These sets, which were inspired by the neoclassical style of the Louis XVI period, are characterized by their elegant lines, intricate detailing, and exquisite craftsmanship. They are considered to be among the finest examples of French silverware from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.  The Louis XVI style, which emerged during the reign of King Louis XVI (1774-1792), is known for its emphasis on symmetry, proportion, and classical motifs. Keller's tea sets capture the essence of this style, with their graceful curves, delicate engravings, and finely detailed handles and spouts. Each piece in the set is a masterpiece in its own right, reflecting Keller's meticulous attention to detail and his deep understanding of the principles of design. Keller's Louis XVI model tea sets are not only functional objects but also works of art. They embody the elegance and sophistication of French silversmithing, and their timeless beauty continues to captivate collectors and connoisseurs to this day. These sets are a testament to Keller's skill and artistry, and they remain enduring symbols of his legacy as one of the greatest silversmiths of his time.

Gustave Keller's contributions to the field of silversmithing are immeasurable. His exceptional craftsmanship, innovative designs, and dedication to quality have earned him a place among the most revered artisans in French history. Through his work, Keller not only elevated the art of silversmithing but also helped to define the cultural and artistic identity of France during a period of great change and transformation.  Keller's royal patronage, numerous awards, and accolades are a testament to his status as a master of his craft. His 950 sterling silver Louis XVI model tea sets, in particular, stand as enduring symbols of his artistry and skill. These sets, with their elegant lines, intricate detailing, and exquisite craftsmanship, continue to captivate and inspire, serving as a reminder of the timeless beauty and enduring legacy of French silversmithing.  In a world where mass production and disposable goods have become the norm, the work of Gustave Keller serves as a powerful reminder of the value of craftsmanship, artistry, and tradition. His pieces are not only objects of beauty but also symbols of a bygone era, when the creation of fine silverware was a labor of love and a testament to the skill and dedication of the artisan. As we continue to appreciate and celebrate the work of Gustave Keller, we are reminded of the enduring power of art to inspire, uplift, and connect us to our shared cultural heritage.

This amazing 8-piece 950 sterling silver tea set is a magnificent testament to the quality and craftsmanship for which Keller was internationally known.  Each of the pieces has been professionally refinished to like new condition.  The magnificent water fountain is approximately 43 cm. in height to the top of the lid, roughly 21.5 cm. in length from the tip of the spout to the end of the handle and weighs 2,123 grams. It is stamped with the g. Keller signature sterling silver hallmark as well as the French government's head of the Minerva 1 hallmark certifying a minimum of 950 sterling silver. The majestic coffee pot is an amazing 27 cm. high to the top of the lid, 20 cm. in length from the tip of the spout to the end of the handle and weights 693 grams. It is also stamped with the G. Keller signature sterling silver hallmark as well as the French government's head of the Minerva 1 hallmark. The elegant teapot is roughly 22 cm. high to the top of the lid, measures approximately 24 cm. in length from the tip of the spout to the outside of the handle and weights 752 grams. It is also stamped with the G. Keller signature sterling silver hallmark as well as the French government's head of the Minerva 1 hallmark certifying a minimum of 950 sterling silver. The magnificent sugar bowl, with gold plated (vermeil) interior, stands roughly 17 cm. high to the top of the lid, measures approximately 17.5 cm. across to the tips of the handles and weights 452 grams. It is stamped with the G. Keller signature sterling silver hallmark as well as the French government's head of the Minerva 1 hallmark. The dainty cream pitcher is approximately 14 cm. in height, measures 12 cm. across from the tip of the spout to the outside of the handle and weights 226 grams. It is also stamped with the G. Keller signature sterling silver hallmark as well as the French government's head of the Minerva 1 hallmark. The elegant candy dish stands roughly 8.2 cm. high, measures approximately 14.50 cm. across to the tips of the handles and weights 275 grams. It is stamped with the G. Keller signature sterling silver hallmark as well as the French government's head of the Minerva 1 hallmark. The massive sterling silver serving tray is 72 cm. in length, 47 cm. across at its widest point and weights a stunning 3,300+ grams.  It is stamped with the G. Keller signature sterling silver hallmark as well as the French government's head of the Minerva 1 hallmark.