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Direct from Paris, a truly
magnificent, 19th century, 2-piece covered French 950 sterling silver
vegetable server (tureen) by one of France’s premier silversmiths “Tetard Freres”,
circa 1880s. Tetard Frères stands as an emblem of unparalleled craftsmanship and
exquisite artistry in the realm of French silversmithing. For over a century,
this illustrious house has captivated connoisseurs with its exceptional designs,
meticulous attention to detail, and unwavering commitment to quality.
The story of Tetard Frères
begins in the heart of Paris in the late 19th century. Founded by brothers Louis
and Charles Tetard in 1880, the atelier quickly gained recognition for its
superior silverwork. With a passion for innovation and a dedication to
traditional techniques, the Tetard brothers embarked on a journey to establish
themselves as premier silversmiths in France.
Driven by their shared vision, Tetard Frères flourished, attracting
esteemed clientele from aristocrats to royalty. The workshop became synonymous
with elegance and sophistication, producing a diverse range of silverware,
including flatware, tea sets, and decorative objects, each bearing the signature
Tetard touch of excellence.
Throughout its illustrious
history, Tetard Frères has garnered numerous accolades and awards, further
solidifying its esteemed reputation in the world of silversmithing. One of the
earliest recognitions came in 1889 when Tetard Frères participated in the
Exposition Universelle in Paris, where they were awarded a gold medal for their
exceptional craftsmanship. Subsequent exhibitions and international showcases
continued to showcase Tetard Frères' mastery, with accolades pouring in from
around the globe. In 1900, at the Exposition Universelle in Paris, the house
once again received the highest honor, earning the Grand Prix for their
exquisite silver creations, further cementing their status as leaders in the
field.
Royal patronage has long been
synonymous with Tetard Frères, as members of European royalty and nobility
sought out the esteemed atelier for their exceptional silverware needs. From
ornate tea services commissioned by Empress Eugénie of France to intricate
presentation pieces crafted for the Russian Imperial Court, Tetard Frères'
creations graced the tables of monarchs and dignitaries across the continent.
Perhaps one of the most significant royal commissions came from the court
of King Leopold II of Belgium, who entrusted Tetard Frères with the creation of
a magnificent silver dinner service. This monumental project, comprising
hundreds of meticulously crafted pieces, showcased the unparalleled skill and
artistry of Tetard Frères, earning them admiration and acclaim from royal
circles.
At the heart of Tetard Frères'
success lies their unwavering commitment to craftsmanship of the highest
caliber. Employing a blend of traditional techniques and innovative approaches,
the artisans at Tetard Frères imbue each piece with a sense of timeless beauty
and meticulous attention to detail.
From the initial design concept to the final polish, every stage of production
at Tetard Frères reflects a dedication to perfection. Skilled silversmiths,
engravers, and chasers collaborate seamlessly, employing techniques passed down
through generations to create works of art that transcend mere functionality.
This amazing 2-piece covered
soup/stew tureen is a stunning example of the quality and craftsmanship for
which the firm was internationally known, traditionally enjoyed by European
royalty. The vegetable server
measures roughly 34.50 cm. across to the tips of the handles, the interior has a
diameter of 25 cm., it stands approximately 30 cm. high to the top of the lid
and weights a massive 2,466 grams. Each piece bears the French Government’s Head
of the Minerva-1 hallmark certifying a minimum of 950 sterling silver and the
"Tetard Freres" sterling silver hallmark.
This is truly a magnificent piece and it has been professionally restored
to near new condition and it comes with its own anti-tarnish wrap for easy
storage.
