French Antique 19th century silver plate table centerpiece, Rocaille model
Direct from Paris, a
stunning 19th century silver plated table centerpiece in excellent
condition, circa 1890s. French
silver plating is a testament to the country's rich tradition of craftsmanship,
artistry, and innovation in the decorative arts. Renowned for its exceptional
quality, intricate designs, and historical significance, French silver plate has
been celebrated for centuries. From the opulent tableware that graced the tables
of royalty to the exquisite antique table centerpieces and jardinières adorned
with the rocaille pattern, French silver plating represents a pinnacle of
artistic achievement.
The art of silver plating
in France dates back to the 18th century, a period marked by the rise of the
Rococo style and the flourishing of decorative arts. Silver plating, or
*argenture*, involves coating a base metal, typically copper or brass, with a
thin layer of silver. This technique allowed for the creation of luxurious
objects that mimicked the appearance of solid silver but were more affordable
and accessible. The development of
French silver plating was closely tied to the advancements in metallurgy and
chemistry during the Enlightenment. French artisans, inspired by the demand for
elegant and functional objects, perfected the process of electroplating in the
19th century. This innovation revolutionized the industry, enabling the mass
production of high-quality silver-plated items while maintaining the meticulous
craftsmanship that defined French artistry.
French silver plating is
distinguished by its unparalleled quality and attention to detail. The process
begins with the careful selection of base metals, which are meticulously shaped
and polished to create a flawless foundation. The silver plating is then applied
using advanced techniques, ensuring an even and durable coating that enhances
the object's beauty and longevity.
One of the hallmarks of French silver plating is the intricate engraving and
chasing that adorn many pieces. Artisans employ a variety of tools and
techniques to create elaborate patterns, motifs, and scenes that reflect the
prevailing artistic styles of the time. The rocaille pattern, characterized by
its sinuous curves, shell-like forms, and naturalistic elements, is particularly
emblematic of French Rococo design and is often found on antique table
centerpieces and jardinières. The
craftsmanship of French silver plating extends beyond the decorative elements to
the functional aspects of the objects. Tableware, for example, is designed with
both aesthetics and utility in mind, ensuring that each piece is not only
visually stunning but also practical for everyday use. This combination of
beauty and functionality is a defining feature of French silver plate and has
contributed to its enduring popularity.
French silver plating has
received numerous awards and accolades over the years, recognizing its
excellence in design and craftsmanship. The Expositions Universelles, or World's
Fairs, held in Paris during the 19th and early 20th centuries, were particularly
important platforms for showcasing French silver plate. These international
exhibitions brought together the finest artisans and manufacturers from around
the world, and French silver plate consistently stood out for its innovation and
artistry. At the 1855 Exposition
Universelle in Paris, French silver plate manufacturers such as Christofle and
Odiot were awarded prestigious medals for their exceptional work. Christofle, in
particular, became synonymous with high-quality silver plating and was
celebrated for its innovative techniques and elegant designs. The company's
success at the Exposition Universelle helped to establish its reputation as a
leader in the field and cemented France's status as a center of excellence for
silver plating. In addition to
international recognition, French silver plate has been honored with numerous
national awards and distinctions. The French government has long supported the
decorative arts, and silver plating has been a beneficiary of this patronage.
The Legion of Honour, France's highest order of merit, has been awarded to
several prominent silver plate artisans and manufacturers in recognition of
their contributions to the country's cultural heritage.
The patronage of the
French royal family and aristocracy played a crucial role in the development and
promotion of French silver plating. The opulent tastes of the monarchy and
nobility created a demand for luxurious and finely crafted objects, and silver
plate was a favored medium for meeting this demand.
During the reign of Louis XV, the Rococo style reached its zenith, and
silver plate became an integral part of the royal court's decorative scheme. The
king's mistress, Madame de Pompadour, was a notable patron of the arts and
played a key role in promoting the rocaille pattern, which became a defining
feature of French silver plate during this period. The royal court's embrace of
silver plate helped to elevate its status and establish it as a symbol of wealth
and refinement.
The French Revolution
brought about significant changes in the patronage of the arts, but the
tradition of royal support for silver plating continued under Napoleon
Bonaparte. The Emperor's desire to revive the grandeur of the French court led
to a renewed interest in silver plate, and manufacturers such as Christofle and
Odiot were commissioned to create elaborate tableware and decorative objects for
the imperial household. Napoleon's patronage helped to ensure the continued
prominence of French silver plate and reinforced its association with luxury and
prestige.
Antique table
centerpieces and jardinières are among the most celebrated examples of French
silver plate. These decorative objects were designed to serve as focal points on
dining tables or in grand interiors, and their elaborate designs and intricate
craftsmanship reflect the opulence and sophistication of the French decorative
arts. Table centerpieces, or *surtouts
de table*, were a staple of French aristocratic dining during the 18th and 19th
centuries. These multi-tiered arrangements typically featured a central motif,
such as a figurine or a floral design, surrounded by smaller elements, such as
candelabra or mirrored platforms. The rocaille pattern was a popular choice for
table centerpieces, and its flowing lines and organic forms added a sense of
movement and dynamism to the composition.
Jardinières, or ornamental planters, were another popular form of French
silver plate. These objects were designed to hold flowers or plants and were
often placed on tables or in prominent locations within a room. The rocaille
pattern was frequently used to decorate jardinières, with its shell-like forms
and naturalistic motifs complementing the organic nature of the plants they
contained. The combination of silver plate and greenery created a striking
visual contrast and added a touch of elegance to any interior.
The rocaille pattern is
one of the most iconic and enduring designs in French silver plate. Originating
in the Rococo period, the rocaille pattern is characterized by its sinuous
curves, asymmetrical forms, and naturalistic motifs, such as shells, flowers,
and foliage. The pattern reflects the Rococo style's emphasis on lightness,
movement, and the beauty of nature, and it has become synonymous with French
elegance and sophistication. The
rocaille pattern was particularly well-suited to silver plate, as its intricate
details and flowing lines could be beautifully rendered in the medium. Artisans
used a variety of techniques, including engraving, chasing, and repoussé, to
create the delicate and dynamic designs that define the rocaille pattern. The
result was a series of objects that were not only visually stunning but also
tactile and engaging, inviting the viewer to explore their intricate details.
The popularity of the rocaille pattern extended beyond silver plate to
other decorative arts, including furniture, ceramics, and textiles. Its
influence can be seen in the work of some of the most renowned French artisans
and designers of the 18th and 19th centuries, and it remains a source of
inspiration for contemporary artists and craftsmen.
French silver plating, as
evidenced by this amazing table centerpiece, is a shining example of the
country's rich artistic heritage and its commitment to excellence in
craftsmanship. From the opulent tableware that graced the tables of royalty to
the exquisite antique table centerpieces and jardinières adorned with the
rocaille pattern, French silver plate represents a pinnacle of artistic
achievement. The quality and craftsmanship of French silver plate have been
recognized with numerous awards and accolades, and its association with royal
patronage has cemented its status as a symbol of luxury and refinement.
The enduring appeal of French silver plate lies in its ability to combine
beauty and functionality, creating objects that are not only visually stunning
but also practical and enduring. The rocaille pattern, with its intricate
details and flowing lines, is a testament to the skill and creativity of French
artisans and remains a beloved design to this day.
French silver plate is not just a reflection of the past; it is a living
testament to the enduring power of beauty, creativity, and excellence.
This is truly a
magnificent set consisting of a jardinière with silverplate interior and a
mirror base in the opulent Rocco pattern.
The jardiniere stands approximately 16.00cm. high at its highest point,
is roughly 42.00cm. in length to the outside of the handles, 26.50cm. across at
its widest point and weights a massive 4,692 grams.
It is in excellent condition with no wearing of the silverplate, not even
on the underside. The stunning
mirrored table centerpiece base is approximately 62.00cm. in length, 42.00cm.
across at its widest point and weight an astounding 5,240 grams.
It too is in excellent condition with no wearing of the silver plate and
the original mirror is also in excellent condition with minimal wear.
You can’t go wrong buying quality.
