Untitled 1
Direct from Paris, A
Magnificent 197 Piece, 19th Century, Louis XVI Model, Sterling Silver Flatware
Set with 8 Serving Pieces and 10 Covered Individual Anti-Tarnish Storage Trays
by Renowned French Silversmiths "Henri Soufflot" and "Olier & Caron" - STUNNING.
The world of silversmithing has been graced by numerous artisans
throughout history, each leaving a distinct mark on the craft. Among these
luminaries, Olier & Caron stand out as exemplars of French silversmithing
excellence. Olier & Caron traces its
roots to 19th-century France, a period marked by cultural and artistic
flourishing. The firm emerged against the backdrop of the Second Empire
(1852-1870), a time when the arts experienced a renaissance under the patronage
of Napoleon III and Empress Eugénie.
Henri
Soufflot was born in Paris in 1879, into a family with a long-standing tradition
in metalworking. His early exposure to the intricacies of the craft ignited a
passion for silversmithing that would define his career. Soufflot's journey into
the world of silver began with formal training at the École des Beaux-Arts,
where he honed his skills and developed a keen understanding of design
principles.
Olier & Carin
quickly gained recognition for their exceptional craftsmanship, combining
traditional techniques with innovative design. Their creations caught the
attention of the aristocracy and the bourgeoisie, leading to a surge in demand
for Olier & Caron's silver pieces. The firm's commitment to quality and
attention to detail set them apart in a competitive market, establishing a
reputation that would endure for generations.
The quality of Olier &
Caron's work did not go unnoticed by the elite of the time. The firm garnered
royal and imperial patronage, crafting bespoke pieces for members of European
royalty and the imperial court. This association with the highest echelons of
society not only elevated Olier & Caron's status but also provided them with
opportunities to showcase their craftsmanship on the grandest stages.
One of their most
prestigious commissions came from Empress Eugénie herself, who commissioned a
magnificent silver service for the Tuileries Palace. This opulent set, adorned
with intricate engravings and embellishments, became a symbol of imperial
splendor and showcased Olier & Caron's ability to create pieces of enduring
beauty and significance.
Olier & Caron's
reputation extended beyond the borders of France, earning them international
acclaim. Their participation in various world expositions, such as the 1867
Exposition Universelle in Paris and subsequent events in London and Vienna,
allowed them to showcase their craftsmanship to a global audience. The firm's
silverware, characterized by its meticulous craftsmanship and innovative
designs, received accolades and awards, solidifying Olier & Caron's position as
leaders in the world of silversmithing.
This is an extremely high
quality set for 18 in a very classic Louis XVI pattern and is perfect for
entertaining. 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. Each piece contains the French governments Head
of the Minerva-1 Hallmark, signifying a minimum of 950 sterling, along with the
manufacturers' sterling silver hallmarks. Henri Soufflet operated at 88 rue de
Turbigo here in Paris from 1884 to 1910 and Olier & Caron operated across the
street at 39 rue de Turbigo between 1910 and 1936. The Set Includes (all weights
and measure approximate):
18 Dinner Knives - Stainless Blades 26.50 cm.
81 grams
18 Dinner Forks 22.00 cm. 82 grams
18 Tablespoons 22.00 cm. 80 grams
18 Luncheon / Dessert Knives with Sterling
Silver Blades 18.00 cm. 37 grams
18 Luncheon / Dessert Forks 19.00 cm. 47 grams
18 Luncheon / Dessert Spoons 19.00 cm. 52
grams
18 Fish Knives with Sterling Silver Blades
22.50 cm. 69 grams
18 Fish Forks 19.00 cm. 53 grams
18 Oyster Forks 14.20 cm. 26 grams
17 Tea Spoons 14.50 cm. 25 grams
9 Escargot Forks 16.00 cm. 23 grams
1 Large Fish Serving Fork 23.50 cm. 114 grams
1 Large Fish Serving Knife 27.50 cm. 132 grams
1 Large Salad Serving Spoon with Vermeil Bowl
27.40 cm. 97 grams
1 Large Salad Serving Fork with Vermeil Prongs
26.00 cm. 97 grams
1 Small Two Pronged bonbon Serving Fork in
Vermeil 13.00 cm. 17 grams
1 Small Dessert Serving Spoon in Vermeil 12.00
cm. 20 grams
1 Small Four Pronged bonbon Serving Fork in
Vermeil 13.00 cm. 17 grams
1 Small Individual Tart Server in Vermeil
12.50 cm. 19 grams
1 Small Dessert Serving Scoop in Vermeil 13.80
cm. 23 grams
Covered Individual Anti-tarnish Storage Trays
