Thomas & Henin 10pc French antique sterling silver flatware serving pieces
Direct from Paris, a
magnificent set of 10 antique French sterling silver 19th century
flatware serving pieces by internationally renowned French silversmiths “Thoman
& Henin”, the successor of Hippolyte Thomas, in excellent condition – circa 1860s.
The art of French silversmithing has long been celebrated for its
unparalleled craftsmanship, intricate designs, and historical significance.
Among the luminaries of this esteemed tradition is the renowned firm Thomas &
Henin, a partnership that epitomized the pinnacle of quality and artistry in the
creation of sterling silver flatware and serving pieces. Active during the 19th
century, Thomas & Henin became synonymous with luxury, precision, and
innovation, producing some of the most exquisite silverware of their time. Their
sterling silver serving pieces, in particular, stand as testaments to their
exceptional skill, attention to detail, and dedication to the craft.
The 19th century was a
golden age for French silversmithing, marked by a resurgence of interest in
luxury goods and decorative arts. This period saw the rise of the bourgeoisie,
who sought to emulate the lifestyles of the aristocracy by acquiring finely
crafted silverware. At the same time, advancements in technology and techniques
allowed silversmiths to push the boundaries of their craft, creating pieces of
unprecedented intricacy and beauty.
Thomas & Henin emerged during this era of innovation and opulence. The firm,
founded by silversmiths Thomas and Henin, quickly gained a reputation for
producing some of the finest silverware in France. Their work reflects the
finest traditions of French silversmithing while also incorporating contemporary
styles and techniques. Thomas & Henin were particularly known for their sterling
silver serving pieces, which combined functionality with artistic beauty.
The hallmark of Thomas &
Henin's work is their exceptional craftsmanship. Each piece was meticulously
crafted by hand, with a level of detail and precision that set their work apart
from that of their contemporaries. The firm was particularly known for their
sterling silver serving pieces, which included items such as soup tureens,
platters, gravy boats, and carving sets.
One of the defining features of Thomas & Henin's serving pieces is their
intricate engraving and chasing. The artisans at the firm were masters of these
techniques, which involved creating detailed patterns and motifs on the surface
of the silver. Common motifs included floral and foliate designs, as well as
classical patterns inspired by ancient Greek and Roman art. These designs were
often enhanced with repoussé work, a technique that involves hammering the
silver from the reverse side to create a three-dimensional effect.
In addition to their decorative elements, Thomas & Henin's serving pieces
were also highly functional. The firm paid close attention to the ergonomics of
their designs, ensuring that each piece was not only beautiful but also
practical to use. This combination of form and function was a key factor in the
firm's success and enduring appeal.
The exceptional quality
of Thomas & Henin's work attracted the attention of royalty and aristocracy
across Europe. Their sterling silver serving pieces were particularly prized by
members of the French royal family, as well as by other European monarchs and
nobles. Thomas & Henin received
numerous commissions from Napoleon III and Empress Eugénie, who were known for
their patronage of the arts. The firm's serving pieces were often used at state
banquets and other formal occasions, where they served as symbols of French
elegance and sophistication. The ability of Thomas & Henin to create pieces that
were both luxurious and functional made them a favorite among the royal court.
In addition to their work for the French royal family, Thomas & Henin
also received commissions from other European monarchs, including Queen Victoria
of England and King Leopold II of Belgium. Their serving pieces were often
gifted as diplomatic presents, further enhancing their reputation as master
silversmiths. The firm's ability to blend traditional craftsmanship with
innovative design made their work highly sought after by the elite.
The exceptional quality
of Thomas & Henin's work was recognized with numerous awards and accolades
throughout their career. The firm exhibited their pieces at prestigious
international exhibitions, where they received critical acclaim and numerous
medals. One of Thomas & Henin's most
notable achievements was a gold medal at the Paris Exposition Universelle of
1855, where their sterling silver serving pieces were praised for their
exquisite craftsmanship and innovative design. They also received accolades at
the London International Exhibition of 1862 and the Vienna World's Fair of 1873,
further cementing their status as one of the leading silversmith firms of their
time. Thomas & Henin's success at
these international exhibitions helped to elevate the status of French
silversmithing on the global stage. Their work was admired not only for its
beauty but also for its technical excellence, setting a new standard for luxury
silverware.
The sterling silver
serving pieces created by Thomas & Henin, like this amazing 10 piece set, are
among the most exquisite examples of their craft. These pieces, which include
items such as soup tureens, platters, gravy boats, and carving sets, are
characterized by their intricate detailing, elegant proportions, and luxurious
finish. One of the hallmarks of
Thomas & Henin's serving pieces is their intricate engraving and chasing. The
artisans at the firm were masters of these techniques, which involved creating
detailed patterns and motifs on the surface of the silver. Common motifs
included floral and foliate designs, as well as classical patterns inspired by
ancient Greek and Roman art. These designs were often enhanced with repoussé
work, a technique that involves hammering the silver from the reverse side to
create a three-dimensional effect.
In addition to their decorative elements, Thomas & Henin's serving pieces were
also highly functional. The firm paid close attention to the ergonomics of their
designs, ensuring that each piece was not only beautiful but also practical to
use. This combination of form and function was a key factor in the firm's
success and enduring appeal.
The work of Thomas &
Henin continues to be celebrated for its exceptional quality and artistry. Their
sterling silver serving pieces are highly prized by collectors and connoisseurs,
who recognize them as masterpieces of French silversmithing.
In addition to their aesthetic and functional qualities, Thomas & Henin's
serving pieces also hold historical significance. They provide a window into the
social and cultural milieu of 19th-century France, reflecting the tastes and
values of a bygone era. The royal patronage and prestigious commissions that
Thomas & Henin received are a testament to the enduring appeal of their work.
Today, the legacy of Thomas & Henin lives on in the continued
appreciation of their craftsmanship and the timeless beauty of their creations.
Their sterling silver serving pieces remain as symbols of French elegance and
refinement, cherished by those who have the privilege of owning and using them.
Thomas & Henin were true
masters of their craft, whose work represents the pinnacle of French
silversmithing. Their sterling silver serving pieces are not only functional
objects but also works of art, characterized by their intricate detailing,
elegant proportions, and luxurious finish. Through their royal patronage, awards
and accolades, and enduring legacy, Thomas & Henin have left an indelible mark
on the world of silversmithing, ensuring that their contributions to the craft
will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.
This amazing 10 piece set of sterling silver flatware serving pieces is a
testament to the quality and craftsmanship for which the firm was
internationally known. Each piece
bears the French Government’s Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark in addition to the
Thomas & Henin manufacturer’s hallmark.
The set contains the following (all weights and measures approximate):
1
Large Fish Serving Knife
27.50 cm.
125 grams
1
Large Fish Serving Fork
24.00 cm.
116 grams
1
Large Salad Serving Spoon
27.00 cm.
80 grams
1
Large Salad Serving Fork
27.00 cm.
81 grams
1
Large Meat Serving Fork
28.00 cm.
143 grams
1
Large Soup / Stew Serving Ladle
33.00 cm.
237 grams
1
Sauce Serving Ladle
21.50 cm.
97 grams
1
Vermeil Ice Cream Scoop
24.00 cm.
111 grams
1
Large Asparagus Serving Tongs
25.50 cm.
246 grams
1
Small Vermeil Sugar Tongs
15.00 cm.
74 grams
