Tetard - Antique French 950 Covered Vegatable Server, 1880s, MUSEUM QUALITY !

 Direct from Paris, a truly magnificent, 19^th 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.