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Hippolyte Thomas - 36pc French Vermeil 19th Century Dessert Flatware Set !
About the Item
Direct from Paris, a magnificent 36pc antique French 19th century gold plated sterling silver (vermeil) dessert flatware set by internationally renowned French silversmith “Hippolyte Thomas”. The set is in excellent condition, has no monograms on any of the pieces and comes with individual anti-tarnish storage trays for easy storage. The world of French silversmithing is one of unparalleled artistry, precision, and luxury. Among the luminaries of this esteemed craft, Hippolyte Thomas stands out as a master whose work exemplifies the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship. Active during the 19th century (1845-1855 at 11 rue du Renard Saint Sauveur & 9 rue des Enfants-Rouges, Paris), Thomas was renowned for his exquisite vermeil dessert flatware sets, which combined the richness of gold with the elegance of sterling silver. His creations were not only functional but also works of art, earning him royal patronage, prestigious awards, and a lasting legacy in the annals of decorative arts.
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. Hippolyte Thomas emerged during this era of innovation and opulence. His work reflects the finest traditions of French silversmithing while also incorporating contemporary styles and techniques. Thomas was particularly known for his mastery of vermeil, a technique that involves gilding sterling silver with a layer of gold. This process not only enhances the visual appeal of the silverware but also adds durability and value.
Thomas's work is characterized by its elegance, precision, and artistic flair. He was particularly adept at creating intricate patterns and motifs, often inspired by nature, mythology, and classical art. His vermeil dessert flatware sets are among his most celebrated creations, showcasing his ability to combine technical mastery with aesthetic beauty. Vermeil, the process of gilding sterling silver with gold, requires a high level of skill and precision. The silver must first be meticulously cleaned and polished to ensure a smooth surface. A thin layer of gold is then applied using a combination of heat and pressure, creating a bond that is both durable and visually stunning.
Hippolyte Thomas was a master of this technique, and his vermeil dessert flatware sets are a testament to his expertise. These sets, which typically include forks, knives, and spoons, are characterized by their intricate detailing, elegant proportions, and luxurious finish. The gold plating enhances the natural beauty of the silver, giving the pieces a warm, radiant glow. One of the hallmarks of Thomas's vermeil flatware is its intricate engraving and chasing. He often incorporated floral and foliate motifs, as well as classical designs, into his work. These patterns were meticulously executed, with each line and curve carefully planned to create a sense of harmony and balance. The handles of Thomas's flatware are typically slender and graceful, with subtle curves that enhance their ergonomic appeal.
The exceptional quality of Hippolyte Thomas's work attracted the attention of royalty and aristocracy across Europe. His vermeil dessert flatware sets were particularly prized by members of the French royal family, as well as by other European monarchs and nobles. Thomas's royal commissions included pieces for Napoleon III and Empress Eugénie, who were known for their patronage of the arts. His flatware sets were often used at state banquets and other formal occasions, where they served as symbols of French elegance and sophistication. Thomas's ability to create pieces that were both luxurious and functional made him a favorite among the royal court. In addition to his work for the French royal family, Thomas also received commissions from other European monarchs, including Queen Victoria of England and King Leopold II of Belgium. His flatware sets were often gifted as diplomatic presents, further enhancing his reputation as a master silversmith. Thomas's ability to blend traditional craftsmanship with innovative design made his work highly sought after by the elite.
The exceptional quality of Hippolyte Thomas's work was recognized with numerous awards and accolades throughout his career. He exhibited his pieces at prestigious international exhibitions, where he received critical acclaim and numerous medals. One of Thomas's most notable achievements was a gold medal at the Paris Exposition Universelle of 1855, where his vermeil dessert flatware sets were praised for their exquisite craftsmanship and innovative design. He also received accolades at the London International Exhibition of 1862 and the Vienna World's Fair of 1873, further cementing his status as one of the leading silversmiths of his time. Thomas's success at these international exhibitions helped to elevate the status of French silversmithing on the global stage. His work was admired not only for its beauty but also for its technical excellence, setting a new standard for luxury silverware.
The vermeil dessert flatware sets created by Hippolyte Thomas, like this amazing 36 piece set, are among the most exquisite examples of his craft. These sets, which typically include forks, knives, and spoons, are characterized by their intricate detailing, elegant proportions, and luxurious finish. The use of vermeil, which combines the richness of gold with the elegance of sterling silver, ensures that these pieces are both durable and beautiful. The high silver content gives the flatware a luminous sheen, while the gold plating adds a touch of opulence. Thomas's mastery of this material is evident in the flawless finish and precise detailing of his flatware sets. One of the hallmarks of Thomas's flatware sets is their delicate floral and foliate designs. These motifs, often inspired by nature, are meticulously engraved or chased into the silver, creating a sense of movement and vitality. The handles of Thomas's flatware are typically slender and graceful, with subtle curves that enhance their ergonomic appeal. In addition to their aesthetic and functional qualities, Thomas's vermeil flatware sets 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 received are a testament to the enduring appeal of his work.
The work of Hippolyte Thomas continues to be celebrated for its exceptional quality and artistry. His vermeil dessert flatware sets are highly prized by collectors and connoisseurs, who recognize them as masterpieces of French silversmithing. In addition to their aesthetic and functional qualities, Thomas's flatware sets 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 received are a testament to the enduring appeal of his work. Today, the legacy of Hippolyte Thomas lives on in the continued appreciation of his craftsmanship and the timeless beauty of his creations. His vermeil dessert flatware sets remain as symbols of French elegance and refinement, cherished by those who have the privilege of owning and using them.
Hippolyte Thomas was a true master of his craft, whose work represents the pinnacle of French silversmithing. His vermeil dessert flatware sets are not only functional objects but also works of art, characterized by their intricate detailing, elegant proportions, and luxurious finish. Through his royal patronage, awards and accolades, and enduring legacy, Thomas has left an indelible mark on the world of silversmithing, ensuring that his contributions to the craft will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come. This magnificent 36 piece vermeil dessert flatware set is a stunning example of the quality and craftsmanship for which Thomas was internationally known. Each piece bears the French governments Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark. The vermeil dessert spoons and dessert forks also bears the Hippolyte Thomas manufacturer’s hallmark while the vermeil knife blades bear the DL manufacturers hallmark and are stamped “Lecointe”. The set includes the following:
12 Vermeil Dessert Forks 18.50 cm. 50 grams
12 Vermeil Dessert Spoons 18.50 cm. 52 grams
12 Vermeil Dessert Knives 19.50 cm. 42 grams
- Creator:French House & Garden (Fashion House)
- Dimensions:Height: 12 in (30.48 cm)Width: 12 in (30.48 cm)Depth: 12 in (30.48 cm)
- Sold As:Set of 36
- Style:Louis XVI (In the Style Of)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:1849
- Condition:
- Seller Location:Wilmington, DE
- Reference Number:1stDibs: LU9583243762682
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