Direct from a private chateau near Paris, an amazing Louis XV 950 sterling silver "centre de table" by one of the world's premier French silversmiths "Boin-Taburet", a beautifully elegant piece, outstanding value for money and includes its own anti-tarnish storage wrap for easy storage, circa 1890s - MAGNIFICENT !! The world of fine silverware is replete with names that have become synonymous with elegance, quality, and unparalleled craftsmanship. Among these illustrious names, “Boin-Taburet” stands out as a beacon of French excellence in silver-smithing. From its inception in the late 19th century to its enduring legacy today, Boin-Taburet has consistently set the standard for luxury silver pieces, particularly renowned for their exquisite 950 sterling silver table centerpieces, known as jardinières.
The story of Boin-Taburet begins in Paris in 1873, when Georges Boin and Emile Taburet joined forces to establish a silver-smithing business that would soon gain recognition for its outstanding quality and innovative designs. The partnership of Boin and Taburet was characterized by a harmonious blend of artistic vision and technical expertise, a combination that would propel the brand to the forefront of French silver-smithing. Georges Boin, a talented designer, brought a flair for creativity and an eye for detail to the partnership. Emile Taburet, on the other hand, was a master silversmith whose technical skills and dedication to perfection were instrumental in bringing Boin's designs to life. Together, they created pieces that were not only functional but also works of art, capturing the attention of discerning clientele in Paris and beyond.
The early years of Boin-Taburet were marked by a series of successful exhibitions and competitions. Their work was showcased at the Exposition Universelle in Paris in 1878, where they received critical acclaim and numerous awards for their innovative designs and impeccable craftsmanship. This early success set the stage for the brand's continued growth and expansion. At the heart of Boin-Taburet's enduring success is their unwavering commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Each piece of silverware produced by the atelier is a testament to the meticulous attention to detail and the dedication to excellence that has defined the brand since its inception. Boin-Taburet pieces are crafted from the finest materials, with a particular emphasis on 950 sterling silver, which is of a higher purity than the standard 925 sterling silver. This choice of material not only enhances the beauty and luster of the pieces but also ensures their durability and longevity.
The process of creating a Boin-Taburet piece is an intricate and labor-intensive one, involving multiple stages of design, forging, and finishing. The silversmiths at Boin-Taburet employ traditional techniques that have been passed down through generations, ensuring that each piece is crafted with the same level of precision and care that has characterized the brand for over a century. The design process begins with detailed sketches and drawings, which are then translated into three-dimensional models. These models serve as the basis for the forging process, where the silver is shaped and formed using a combination of hammering, annealing, and casting techniques. Once the basic form of the piece is complete, it undergoes a series of finishing processes, including polishing, engraving, and gilding, to achieve the desired level of detail and refinement.
Boin-Taburet's reputation for excellence soon attracted the attention of the European aristocracy and royalty. The brand's pieces were sought after by the most discerning clients, including members of the French royal family and other European nobility. This royal patronage not only elevated the status of Boin-Taburet but also served as a testament to the exceptional quality and craftsmanship of their work. One of the most notable patrons of Boin-Taburet was the French Empress Eugénie, wife of Napoleon III. Empress Eugénie was known for her refined taste and appreciation for the arts, and she commissioned numerous pieces from Boin-Taburet for the royal household. These pieces, characterized by their intricate designs and exquisite craftsmanship, were often used in state banquets and other official functions, further cementing Boin-Taburet's reputation as a purveyor of luxury silverware. In addition to Empress Eugénie, Boin-Taburet also counted other European royals among their clientele. Their pieces were favored by the likes of Queen Victoria of England and King Alfonso XIII of Spain, among others. This widespread royal patronage not only enhanced the brand's prestige but also contributed to its international appeal and recognition.
The exceptional quality and craftsmanship of Boin-Taburet's work have been recognized with numerous awards and accolades over the years. From their early successes at the Exposition Universelle in Paris to more recent honors, Boin-Taburet has consistently been celebrated for their innovative designs and technical excellence. One of the most significant milestones in Boin-Taburet's history was their participation in the Exposition Universelle of 1889, held in Paris to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution. The event was a showcase of the best in art, industry, and culture, and Boin-Taburet's work was prominently featured. Their pieces were awarded several medals, including a prestigious gold medal, in recognition of their outstanding quality and craftsmanship.
Among the many exquisite pieces produced by Boin-Taburet, their 950 sterling silver table centerpieces, or jardinières, are particularly noteworthy. These centerpieces are masterpieces of design and craftsmanship, embodying the elegance and sophistication that have come to define the Boin-Taburet brand. The term "jardinière" refers to a decorative container or stand for holding plants or flowers, typically used as a centerpiece on a dining table or other prominent location. Boin-Taburet's jardinières are renowned for their intricate designs, often featuring elaborate floral motifs, ornate scrollwork, and other decorative elements. These pieces are not only functional but also serve as stunning works of art, adding a touch of luxury and refinement to any setting. The creation of a Boin-Taburet jardinière involves a meticulous and labor-intensive process, with each piece requiring countless hours of skilled labor. The process begins with the design phase, where detailed sketches and drawings are created to capture the desired aesthetic and functional elements of the piece. These designs are then translated into three-dimensional models, which serve as the basis for the forging and shaping of the silver.
The forging process involves shaping the silver using a combination of hammering, annealing, and casting techniques. This stage requires a high level of skill and precision, as the silversmith must carefully manipulate the metal to achieve the desired form and detail. Once the basic shape of the jardinière is complete, it undergoes a series of finishing processes, including polishing, engraving, and gilding, to achieve the desired level of detail and refinement. In addition to their technical excellence, Boin-Taburet's jardinières are also celebrated for their artistic merit. The intricate designs and decorative elements of these pieces reflect a deep appreciation for the beauty of nature and a keen eye for detail. Floral motifs, scrollwork, and other decorative elements are meticulously crafted to create pieces that are not only functional but also serve as stunning works of art.
The legacy of Boin-Taburet is one of unparalleled excellence in the world of silver-smithing. From their early beginnings in 19th-century Paris to their continued success today, Boin-Taburet has consistently set the standard for luxury silverware. Their unwavering commitment to quality and craftsmanship, their prestigious royal patronage, their numerous awards and accolades, and the remarkable artistry of their 950 sterling silver table centerpieces, or jardinières, all serve to highlight the enduring legacy of this iconic brand. Boin-Taburet's pieces are more than just functional items; they are works of art that reflect the rich history and tradition of French silver-smithing. Each piece, like this amazing table centerpiece (jardinière), is a testament to the meticulous attention to detail and the dedication to excellence that has defined the brand for over a century. Whether used in grand state banquets or displayed as decorative art, Boin-Taburet's silverware continues to captivate and inspire, a true reflection of the timeless elegance and sophistication of French craftsmanship. This amazing piece measures approximately 35.00 cm. in length, 25.00 cm. wide at its widest point, 11.00 cm. high and weights an astounding 1,290 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 Boin-Taburet manufacturer's sterling silver hallmark. You can’t go wrong buying quality.
