Jean Puiforcat Decorative Dishes and Vide-Poche

Direct from a private mansion in Paris, a magnificent 299 pc. antique French sterling silver flatware set by France’s premier s...

Direct from a private residence in Paris, a magnificent 19th century, Louis XVI covered sterling silver tureen by the world's premier French silversmith "Puiforcat", currently owned by Hermes, a beautifully elegant set - Circa 1890s, MAGNIFICENT. The art of silver-smithing has been a distinguished part of French heritage for centuries, producing some of the most exquisite and sought-after silverware in the world. Among the names synonymous with excellence in this field, Puiforcat stands out for its unparalleled craftsmanship, rich history, royal patronage, and innovative designs. Puiforcat's story began in 1820 when Jean-Baptiste Fuchs, a skilled silversmith, established a workshop in Paris. This workshop laid the foundation for what would become one of the most prestigious names in silver-smithing. In 1857, Louis-Victor Puiforcat, Fuchs' son-in-law, joined the business, bringing with him a passion for the craft that would define the company’s future. The business was subsequently renamed "Puiforcat" and began to flourish, gaining a reputation for its exceptional silverware. Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, Puiforcat expanded its range of products, producing not only silver flatware but also intricate tableware, decorative pieces, and objets d'art. The company's commitment to quality and innovation was evident in their designs, which often incorporated elements of Art Deco, a style that became closely associated with Puiforcat during the early 20th century. This period also saw the involvement of Jean Puiforcat, a visionary designer who played a crucial role in establishing the brand's modern identity. Puiforcat's silver pieces are renowned for their exceptional quality and craftsmanship. Each piece is meticulously crafted by skilled artisans who adhere to traditional techniques passed down through generations. The process of creating Puiforcat silver pieces involves multiple stages, including design, forging, chasing, and polishing, each requiring a high level of expertise and precision. One of the hallmarks of Puiforcat silverware...

Jean Elysée Puiforcat was a French silversmith, sculptor and designer. Puiforcat is considered the "most important French Art Deco silversmith." These handcrafted utensils show off t...

Jean Elysée Puiforcat was a French silversmith, sculptor and designer. Puiforcat is is considered the "most important French Art Deco silversmith." These handcrafted utensils show...

Completely handmade sterling silver oval basket. The basket or tray shape is decorated with a border made with the fusion technique and subsequently chiseled and engraved. The border...

Outstanding Art Deco Puiforcat 950 sterling silver flatware set, 125 pieces. This set includes: 12 dinner knives, 10" (not puiforcat, ebony handle with silver caps with cornucopia d...

Art Deco sterling silver tray. Made by Tiffany & Co. in New York, ca 1911. Round with soft faceting. A nice piece in the emerging geometric style. Fully mar...

1940s Jean Puiforcat sterling cup.

Direct from Paris, a stunning 70pc. antique French 19th century sterling silver flatware set by France’s premier silversmith “Puiforcat”, currently owned by Hermes, in excellent condition and with individual storage chests. The name Puiforcat resonates deeply within the annals of French luxury, embodying the pinnacle of silversmithing craftsmanship, tradition, and innovation. With a history spanning nearly two centuries, the house of Puiforcat is synonymous with unparalleled quality, royal patronage, and an enduring legacy that seamlessly blends classical elegance with modern artistry. From its foundation in the early 19th century to its contemporary association with the luxury conglomerate Hermès, Puiforcat has maintained its status as a paragon of excellence in the creation of sterling silver flatware and objets d'art. The story of Puiforcat begins in 1820, when Émile Puiforcat established the silversmithing company in Paris. Initially focused on the production of flatware, the company quickly gained a reputation for its meticulous craftsmanship and exquisite designs. The Puiforcat family, over several generations, maintained a steadfast commitment to the highest standards of silversmithing. Each piece produced by the workshop was meticulously handcrafted, with an attention to detail that elevated Puiforcat above many of its contemporaries. The company’s dedication to quality was not merely about aesthetics; it was a philosophical approach that viewed silversmithing as an art form. Every piece, whether a simple spoon or an ornate candelabra, was treated as a work of art, designed to bring beauty and elegance to everyday life. Puiforcat’s reputation for excellence did not go unnoticed by the elite of French society. The house soon became a favored silversmith among the aristocracy and royalty, further solidifying its status as a purveyor of luxury. The association with the French royal family was a significant milestone for Puiforcat, as it brought the company into the upper echelons of French society and culture. One of the most notable patrons of Puiforcat was the Duke of Orléans, a member of the Bourbon royal family. The Duke’s patronage was instrumental in elevating Puiforcat’s profile, as it led to commissions for some of the most prestigious households in Europe. These commissions often involved the creation of bespoke pieces that were tailored to the specific tastes and requirements of the clients, showcasing Puiforcat’s ability to blend traditional craftsmanship with personalized design. The royal patronage extended beyond France’s borders as well, with Puiforcat receiving commissions from various European courts. This international recognition helped the company to expand its influence and cement its position as one of the leading silversmiths in Europe. The ability to cater to such discerning clients required not only exceptional craftsmanship but also an understanding of the cultural and aesthetic nuances that defined different European courts. Puiforcat’s success in this regard is a testament to the company’s versatility and artistic sensibility. At the heart of Puiforcat’s enduring appeal is its commitment to creating the finest sterling silver flatware in the world. The company’s 950 sterling silver flatware sets are considered some of the best in the industry, renowned for their exceptional quality, durability, and timeless beauty. Sterling silver is an alloy consisting of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, typically copper. However, Puiforcat goes a step further by using 950 sterling silver, which contains 95% pure silver. This higher silver content gives the flatware a more luminous finish and a greater resistance to tarnishing, making it ideal for both everyday use and special occasions. The process of creating Puiforcat’s sterling silver flatware is a labor-intensive one, requiring the skill and expertise of master silversmiths. Each piece is handcrafted using traditional techniques that have been passed down through generations. This includes the meticulous process of shaping, hammering, and polishing the silver to achieve the desired form and finish. The attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the flatware, from the perfectly balanced weight to the intricate engravings that adorn many of the pieces. One of the hallmarks of Puiforcat’s flatware...

Coquille by Puiforcat 950 sterling silver flatware and unknown maker French sterling set of 78 pieces. This set includes: 18 dinner size knives, pistol grip, 9 7/8" (Puiforcat), 1...

These handcrafted utensils show off the exceptional skill of the legendary Puiforcat silversmiths. The high-quality of Puiforcat cutlery is also reve...

Elegant vessel that can be used as an object of a vase / plant stand, made of silver plated brass in the style of Puiforcat with a gorgeous patina.