Shell Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Striking mid-century Mexican shot glass and tray set, made of brass with inlaid abalone shell. The set includes six shot glasses and a matching rect...

Royal House Antiques Royal House Antiques is delighted to offer for sale this stunning suite of four mother of pearl sterling silver tested shell tea spoons A good looking well made and decorative suite of four spoons, they have been tested (not by me) as sterling silver, they have shell heads...

This extraordinary snuff box is a true work of art, crafted from silver and adorned with a stunning mother-of-pearl cover. Unlike traditional rectangular or box-shaped designs, this piece takes on the unique and elegant form of a seashell, adding to its rarity and charm. The mother-of-pearl lid is masterfully hand-carved with an intricate portrayal of the sacred site of Kever Rachel, the tomb of the biblical matriarch Rachel. The delicate engraving captures the serene beauty of the surrounding landscape, featuring rolling fields and distant mountains. A majestic tree with overhanging branches stands prominently, casting its shade over the revered burial site at the center of the composition. The depth and detail of the carving bring the scene to life, reflecting both artistic excellence and spiritual reverence. The silver base of the snuff box complements the luminous mother-of-pearl, creating a harmonious blend of materials that exude elegance and historical significance. A rare and collectible piece, this snuff box is a perfect addition for collectors of fine Judaica, antique snuff boxes...

Vintage nautical serving tray by Couroc of Monterey, made of black phenolic resin with a group of four sailboats with brightly colored sails created using inlaid brass and a mosaic o...

Pair of shell and twisted root spoons from the early 19th C. Handcrafted in Japan in a style that was celebrating nature. Very unique and rare.

A striking set of four vintage tumblers by Villa, Taxco, crafted in brass with interiors silver plated and exteriors inlaid with shimmering abalone shell. Each cylindrical cup is ado...

Set of 36 French Gold-Plated Flatware with Mother-of-Pearl Handles, in Original Box, Set of 36 French Antique Dessert Forks & Knives, Oyster Fork Set with Gold Ferrules An exqui...

Direct from a Private Chateau in France, A Stunning 138pc. Privately Commissioned Louis XVI Sterling Silver Flatware Set (Service for 12) with 6 Serving Pieces by Internationally Kno...

We are delighted to be able to offer this splendid solid silver gilt mother of pearl pill/snuff box, Germany late 19th century. This pill box features a wonderfully ornate Rococo-st...

Direct from Paris: A magnificent 170pc. 950 sterling silver original French art nouveau flatware set with 8 serving pieces by the world's premier French silversmith "Puiforcat" currently owned by Hermes, stunning luxury at an amazingly low price - circa early 1900s. The art of French silversmithing represents a centuries-old tradition of luxury, precision, and timeless elegance. Among the most distinguished names in this venerable craft stands Puiforcat, a Maison renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship, innovative design, and royal patronage. Established in the early nineteenth century, Puiforcat has maintained an unwavering commitment to excellence, producing sterling silver flatware, tableware, and decorative objects that embody both artistic mastery and functional beauty. The History and Legacy of Puiforcat: The origins of Puiforcat trace back to 1820, when master silversmith Jean-Baptiste Fuchs established his workshop in Paris. Fuchs was a consummate artisan who adhered to the exacting standards of French silversmithing, a tradition that demanded not only technical precision but also refined artistic sensibility. The Maison’s identity became firmly established when Fuchs' son-in-law, Émile Puiforcat, inherited the business and elevated its reputation to unprecedented heights. Émile Puiforcat emerged as more than just a silversmith; he was a true visionary who intuitively understood the evolving aesthetic sensibilities of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Under his inspired leadership, the Maison successfully transitioned from producing traditional silverware to embracing avant-garde movements, particularly Art Nouveau and later Art Deco. This remarkable ability to innovate while maintaining the highest standards of craftsmanship distinguished Puiforcat from its contemporaries and established its enduring reputation. During the glorious Belle Époque period spanning the late nineteenth to early twentieth century, Puiforcat flourished as French decorative arts entered a golden age. The Maison’s work during this period was characterized by several defining features that set it apart. Each piece bore the mark of meticulous hand-hammered finishes, a technique that gave Puiforcat silverware its distinctive texture and depth compared to mass-produced alternatives. The Maison’s artisans employed exquisite chasing and engraving techniques, including the sophisticated repoussé method where designs were carefully hammered into relief from the reverse side, followed by precise chasing to refine the front details. These labor-intensive processes resulted in breathtakingly intricate, lifelike motifs that became Puiforcat's signature. While Puiforcat's early work remained firmly rooted in rococo and neoclassical traditions, the Maison demonstrated remarkable adaptability by later embracing the clean lines and bold symmetry of Art Deco, particularly under Émile Puiforcat's visionary guidance. Royal Patronage and Aristocratic Clientele: Puiforcat's reputation for excellence quickly attracted the attention of Europe's most discerning elite. The Maison’s clientele included some of the most prominent figures of the nineteenth century, beginning with King Louis-Philippe of France, whose refined taste and appreciation for fine craftsmanship led him to commission ceremonial silverware from Puiforcat. This royal endorsement significantly enhanced the Maison’s prestige and visibility. Napoleon III followed suit, making Puiforcat silver services a staple at imperial banquets and state functions. Beyond French royalty, Puiforcat's creations became essential status symbols among the broader European aristocracy, finding homes in the collections of Russian nobles and British high society alike. The Maison’s ability to cater to royal tastes extended beyond mere prestige; it reflected a profound understanding of both ceremonial grandeur and functional design. Puiforcat's pieces were never merely decorative objects - each item was carefully engineered to enhance the dining experience. The ergonomic handles and perfectly balanced weights of their flatware demonstrated how Puiforcat harmonized aesthetic beauty with practical utility, creating pieces that were as delightful to use as they were to behold. Émile Puiforcat played a particularly transformative role in elevating the Maison’s standing during the early twentieth century. His visionary approach included collaborations with leading artists and architects of the period, most notably Jean-Michel Frank, the influential Art Deco designer. These creative partnerships ensured that Puiforcat's designs remained at the cutting edge of contemporary aesthetics. While many traditional silversmiths clung to conventional styles, Émile boldly embraced geometric abstraction, creating pieces that functioned simultaneously as tableware and sculptural art. His leadership earned Puiforcat international acclaim through awards at world expositions, cementing the Maison’s reputation as an innovator in luxury silverware. Émile's legacy proved so enduring that even after his death in 1945, Puiforcat continued to be synonymous with innovation and exclusivity in the world of fine silver. Awards and Accolades: Throughout its distinguished history, Puiforcat's commitment to excellence has been recognized through numerous prestigious awards, each reinforcing its status as a master of French silversmithing. The Maison’s participation in world expositions yielded particularly significant honors, beginning with gold medals at the Paris Exposition Universelle in both 1889 and 1900. These monumental exhibitions represented the pinnacle of industrial and artistic achievement in the nineteenth century, making Puiforcat's gold medals a powerful testament to its technical mastery and artistic vision. The Maison’s international reputation continued to grow through subsequent exhibitions in major European cultural capitals. At international exhibitions in Brussels, Barcelona, and Milan, Puiforcat demonstrated its remarkable ability to adapt to regional aesthetic preferences while maintaining its distinctive French elegance. This versatility, combined with uncompromising quality, earned the Maison consistent acclaim across diverse markets and cultures. In the modern era, Puiforcat's contributions to artisanal traditions have received official recognition through France's Living Heritage Company (Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant, or EPV) designation. This prestigious distinction, awarded by the French government, honors enterprises that preserve and advance traditional artisanal skills. Puiforcat's inclusion in this select group underscores its ongoing dedication to handcrafted excellence in an increasingly industrialized world. The artistic significance of Puiforcat's work has been further validated through exhibitions at some of the world's most respected cultural institutions. The Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris and New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art have both showcased Puiforcat pieces, placing them in dialogue with other masterworks of decorative arts. These exhibitions not only celebrate Puiforcat's historical contributions but also affirm its continuing relevance in the narrative of fine craftsmanship. Association with Hermès - A Synergy of Luxury: The 1993 acquisition of Puiforcat by the Hermès luxury group marked a significant chapter in the Maison’s history, ensuring both the preservation and thoughtful evolution of its legacy. This strategic partnership brought together two French institutions united by their commitment to artisanal excellence and timeless design. Hermès demonstrated profound respect for Puiforcat's heritage, carefully maintaining the traditional techniques that had defined the silversmith's work for generations. Under Hermès' stewardship, Puiforcat continued to employ the same handmade techniques that had earned its reputation, including the exacting lost-wax casting process and meticulous hand engraving. The Maison maintained its uncompromising standards regarding materials, continuing to use 950-silver despite industry trends toward lower purity alloys. This commitment to quality ensured that every piece bearing the Puiforcat name remained worthy of its illustrious history. Hermès' global retail network provided Puiforcat with unprecedented access to international markets, introducing the silversmith's creations to new generations of collectors and connoisseurs worldwide. While honoring tradition, Hermès also encouraged thoughtful innovation, supporting new designs that respected Puiforcat's heritage while ensuring its relevance in contemporary luxury. This balanced approach has allowed Puiforcat to maintain its position at the forefront of fine silverware while staying true to its artisanal roots. Puiforcat's 950 Sterling Silver Art Nouveau Flatware Sets: Among Puiforcat's most celebrated achievements are its extraordinary 950 sterling silver Art Nouveau flatware sets, which perfectly encapsulate the Maison’s artistic and technical brilliance. The decision to use 950-silver, containing 95% pure silver rather than the standard 92.5%, resulted in pieces with a richer luster and greater durability than conventional sterling silver. This higher purity not only enhanced the visual appeal of each piece but also ensured that Puiforcat flatware...

We are delighted to offer this absolutely exquisite circa 1880 Chinese Export warrior paper mache mother of pearl inlaid dinner serving tra...

Elegant mid-century Mexican brass and abalone shell serving set, designed and handcrafted in Mexico during the 1950s. This beautiful ensemble includes a rectangular tray and five tum...

Striking mid-20th century Mexican modernist pitcher crafted in alpaca silver and richly clad in hand-cut abalone shell inlay, signed LHG and marked Alpaca Mexico. This sculptural ve...

Antique English Victorian Mother of Pearl 24 piece dessert service in case, circa 1880.

Whimsical mid century serving tray by Couroc of Monterey, made from phenolic resin and inlaid with wood and brass depicting colorful sea shells rare and beautiful tray . Phenolic res...

Vintage Mexican Modern beverage service set designed and manufactured in Taxco, Mexico in the 1950s, featuring a sculptural silver-plated pitcher with figural parrot handle and a mat...

Superb set of 6 shot glasses designed and produced in Mexico during the 1970's. This artisanal set with abalone mother-of-pearl and alpaca, is a true work of art. A beautiful set to ...

Superb set of 6 shot glasses designed and produced in Mexico during the 1970's. This artisanal set with abalone mother-of-pearl and alpaca, is a true work of art. A beautiful set to ...

Superb set of 6 shot glasses designed and produced in Mexico during the 1970's. This artisanal set with abalone mother-of-pearl and alpaca, is a true work of art. A beautiful set to ...

Striking vintage serving tray designed and manufactured in the 1980s by Emilia Castillo in Taxco, Mexico, crafted in solid brass with a silver-plated finish and richly adorned with n...

Antique French inlaid brass, Tortoise, and Mother of pearl cave À Liqueur with Baccarat crystal glassware.

A beautiful set of 23 natural seashell appetizer or bar picks.

A very beautiful large grouping of all natural seashells. Vessel contains over 50+ matte white and tan/brown/off-white seashells in long/oblong hand-carved wood centerpiece...

Exceptional mid-century creamer and sugar set with tray by Los Castillo of Taxco, Mexico, representing the finest traditions of Mexican silversmithing. This sculptural serving set sh...

A fine antique Edwardian boxed fruit or dessert set. By Wilson & Gill of Sheffield, England. Comprising 12 3-tine forks and 12 knives. Each with a chamfered mother-of-pearl ha...

t is a Rectangular -shaped tray, made of rattann mother-of-pearl pellets. It was made in Italy in the 1970s. The decorations that compose it are mother-of-pearl pellets in White Color .

Elegantly designed pairs of brass candlesticks and salt & pepper shakers, with inlaid mother of pearl designs.

Vintage silver plated water pitcher with abalone shell inlaid designed and manufactured in Mexico in the 1960s More than a utilitarian piece, this pitcher is more of a sculpture, t...

Vintage Raimond Sheffield England Mother-of-Pearl Fruit Knives Silver Plated Set Offered for sale is a set of six Raimond Silver Manufacturers, Sheffie...

A gorgeous antique Arts & Crafts or Art Deco period gilt bronze large plate or tray with abalone inlay By Tiffany Studios (signed to the underside) New York, USA, Early 20th Centur...

Made of palissander, this lovely Napoleon III period liqueur box is lacquered in black, a method which became popular during Napoleon III's reign. The rose...

From Landers, Frary & Clark, Aetna Works, founded in New Britain, Connecticut, 1866, a set of twelve mother-of-pearl handled place or luncheon knives with floral sterling silver ferr...

This exquisite set of six vintage napkin rings is crafted from genuine mother-of-pearl, exuding timeless elegance and sophistication. Originating from the 1950s, these rare pieces ar...

Set of 6 Antique Landers, Frary & Clark Aetna Works Connecticut Sterling and Solid Mother of Pearl Handled Fruit Knives, With Elaborate Sterling Silver Bolsters and Stainless Steel B...

This piece represents the era’s celebrated fusion of organic materials and modern design, echoing the influence of Taxco’s most innovative silversmiths—where artists and workshops such as Los Castillo...

A gorgeous antique Arts & Crafts or Art Deco period gilt bronze dish or shallow bowl with abalone inlay By Tiffany Studios (signed to the underside) New York, USA, Early 20th Centu...

A striking mid-century Mexican modernist creamer and sugar pot set executed in polished alpaca (nickel silver) and richly inlaid abalone shell, designed and manufactured in Mexico in...

A set of four (4) abalone seashell drinks, wine, cocktail coasters from luxury design Masion R & Y Augousti, circa late 20th century to early 21st. S...

This elegant set of sterling silver salt shakers and matching open salt cellars is a refined example of classic Georg Jensen design, bearing the well-known Model 433 designation. Pro...

Mid-Century French Decorative Wood and mother-of-pearl Platter 1970s

A sculptural seven-piece Mexican modernist barware set executed in solid brass and clad in hand-cut abalone shell mosaic, crafted in Mexico circa 1960s. Marked: Hecho en Mexico Meta...

Elegant set of six handcrafted teacups with matching saucers, designed and manufactured in Mexico during the 1950s. Each piece is beautifully made of solid brass with abalone shell i...

A striking vintage water pitcher designed and manufactured by Los Castillo in Taxco, Mexico—an iconic workshop celebrated for elevating Mexican silversmithing into the realm of moder...

Add timeless elegance to your table with this exquisite Art Deco salt and pepper set. Crafted from warm brass and delicately adorned with shimmering mother-of-pearl inlays, this set ...

Pair of Gabriella Crespi shells with hand-decorated silver metal application, engraved signature, 1970s. Product details Dimensions: 8 L x 3.5 H x 6 D cm

Elegant mid-century Mexican brass and abalone shell serving set comprising a rectangular tray and five tall tumblers, handcrafted in Mexico during the 1950s. Each piece is marked “Me...

A beautiful set of six (6) sterling silver and mother-of-pearl appetizer knives, circa late-20th century. The handle is mother-of-pearl joined to stainless-steel blade by a sterling ...

A gorgeous Arts & Crafts or Art Deco period gilt bronze dish or shallow bowl with abalone inlay By Tiffany Studios (signed to the underside) New York, USA, Early 20th Century Meas...

Set of (6) hand made drink coasters that are Made in India with intricate hand carved floral details from the 1970s. Since these are hand made and hand carved, each coaster is sligh...

The Paris based label has distinguished themselves since their launch, with their iconic use of shagreen mixed with brass and other exotic materials. All furniture is handcrafted by ...

Dutch Rozenburg Egg-Shell porcelain vase with Bird and Floral Decor, 1913 Rozenburg, NV Haagsche Plateelbakkerij/Koninklijke Porselein- en Aardewerkfabriek (Den Haag 1883 - 1917) S...

Three colorful graduated inlaid shell abstract pattern concave trays Attributed to the workshops of Maitland-Smith Retailed by Shawana Storey, San Francisco Three large scale, g...

This series is made using eggshells discarded from an ice cream shop and shells from Tong-yeong, Korea. There is an ice cream shop that makes gelato next to The WKND Lab’s workspace....

A vintage set of ten (10) seashell and Lucite napkin ring holders, circa 1960s. A different natural seashell on each ring. Very good condition as shown in images and video. Vintage...

Five Bottle Wine Rack Collapsible in Rosewood and Abalone 16.5 w x 6.5 d x 17.5 tall 19.13 x 6.5 x 3.5 closed Wine holder Rack Rosewood with abalone inserts rusty chain. Preowned vin...

The Paris based label has distinguished themselves since their launch, with their iconic use of shagreen mixed with brass and other exotic materials. All furniture is handcrafted by ...

Vintage Thanksgiving platter in a shape of turkey, wood and metal, design studio made.

A Silver plated frame with a beautiful pair of Edwardian hand-cut glass decanters with cut-glass stoppers. Once unlocked the handle can be lifted and swivelled to access the deca...

Direct from France: Direct from a Private Villa in St. Tropez, A Magnificent 220pc. Louis XVI French 950 Sterling Silver Flatware Set by Henri Lapparra, "Silversmith to the French E...

Antique champagne bottle with naturally grown oyster shells.