Direct from Private Mansion in Paris, A Truly Magnificent Original French Art Deco, 5 pc. Sterling Silver Tea Set with Serving Tray by Two of France's Premier Silversmiths "Tetard Frères" and "Louis Coignet", Outstanding Value for Money and No Monograms - Circa early 1900s. In the annals of decorative arts history, few names shine as brightly as that of Tétard Frères, the illustrious French silver-smithing firm established in the late 19th century. Renowned for their exceptional craftsmanship and innovative designs, Tétard Frères became synonymous with the luxury and elegance that characterized the Art Deco movement.
Tétard Frères was founded in 1880 by Edmond Tétard, who was later joined by his brothers. Located in Paris, the firm quickly established itself as a premier silversmith, producing pieces of the highest quality. The meticulous attention to detail and pursuit of perfection soon earned them a reputation among the elite of French society and beyond. The Tétard hallmark—a mark of excellence—became a coveted symbol in the realms of sterling silver manufacturing.
The legacy of Tétard Frères is fundamentally built on its unparalleled craftsmanship. Every piece crafted by Tétard was a testament to the skill and dedication of its artisans. Utilizing traditional techniques while embracing innovation, the firm maintained a standard of quality that was virtually unmatched. Their silverware was not merely functional; it was also artistically significant, often adorned with intricate patterns and innovative finishes that enhanced its allure and tactile quality.
The excellence of Tétard Frères did not go unrecognized in the artistic and commercial communities. The firm was a regular participant in international expositions and often came away with high honors. For instance, at the 1925 Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes, which gave the Art Deco movement its name, Tétard Frères received critical acclaim and public recognition, bolstering their reputation as leaders in the field of decorative arts.
Royal patronage was a significant aspect of the success story of Tétard Frères. Their clientele included aristocrats, financiers, and members of the royal families across Europe. This patronage was not only a testament to the quality of their work but also an endorsement that elevated their brand, making their creations highly desirable among the affluent buyers who sought to emulate the tastes and preferences of the nobility.
The involvement of Tétard Frères in the Art Deco movement marked a pivotal chapter in the firm’s history. Art Deco was characterized by its embrace of modernity and a penchant for geometric forms and symmetrical designs, which were both luxurious and forward-thinking. Tétard Frères adapted this style, infusing it with their unique aesthetic to create silverware that was both contemporary and timeless. Their designs often featured bold, angular shapes and a preference for decoration that emphasized sleekness over the more ornate styles of the past.
Tétard Frères remains a symbol of the extraordinary capabilities of French silversmiths in the context of global decorative arts. Through their commitment to quality, innovation in design, and adherence to the aesthetics of the Art Deco movement, they carved out a legacy that continues to influence and inspire. The firm’s dedication to excellence in every facet of their production—from royal commissions to pioneering contributions to major artistic movements—establishes Tétard Frères as a beacon of artistry and craftsmanship in the world of silver-smithing.
Perhaps the most renowned contribution of Tétard Frères to the Art Deco period was their iconic tea sets – like this amazing 4-piece set. This tea set, designed during the 1920s, exemplifies the zenith of Art Deco design in silverware. It features clean lines, geometric shapes, and a polished finish that mirrors the aesthetic of the era. The set includes a teapot, sugar bowl, creamer, and a tray, each piece showcasing the firm’s mastery over silver craftsmanship. The tea set not only reflects the artistic trends of the time but also highlights the technological advancements in metalworking that Tétard Frères pioneered.
The magnificent coffee pot measures approximately 21.50 cm. high to the top of the lid, 19.00 cm. across from the outer edge of the handle to the tip of the spout and weights 662 grams. It is stamped with the French Government’s Head of the Minerva-1 hallmark certifying a minimum of 950 sterling silver in addition to the Tetard Frères sterling silver manufacturer's hallmark and comes with its own anti-tarnish storage wrap for easy storage.
The elegant sugar bowl measures approximately 15.50 cm. high to the top of the lid, 14.50 cm. wide to the tips of the handles and weights 537 grams. It is also stamped with the French Government’s Head of the Minerva-1 hallmark certifying a minimum of 950 sterling silver in addition to the Tetard Frères sterling silver manufacturer's hallmark and comes with its own anti-tarnish storage wrap for easy storage.
The gorgeous teapot measures roughly 18.50 cm. high to the top of the lid, 26.00 cm. from the outer edge of the handle to the tip of the spout and weights an amazing 714 grams. It is also stamped with the French Government’s Head of the Minerva-1 hallmark certifying a minimum of 950 sterling silver in addition to the Tetard Frères sterling silver manufacturer's hallmark and comes with its own anti-tarnish storage wrap for easy storage.
The dainty Cream Pitcher stands roughly 9.50 cm. high to the top of the handle, measures approximately 13.50 cm. across from the tip of the spout to the outside of the handle and weights 215 grams. It also bears the French Government's Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark, certifying a minimum of 950 sterling silver in addition to the Tetard Frères' sterling silver manufacturer's hallmark and comes with its own anti-tarnish storage wrap for easy storage.
The sturdy sterling silver serving tray measures 48 cm. in length to the tips of the handles, 32.50 cm. across and weights 1,780 grams. It bears the French Government’s Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark certifying a minimum of 950 sterling silver in addition to the Louis Coignet sterling silver manufacturer's hallmark and comes with its own anti-tarnish storage wrap for easy storage.
