Boulenger - 8pc. Louis XVI, Silver Tea Set - Museum Quality !

About the Item

Direct from Paris, A Superb 8 piece 19th Century Louis XVI Sterling Silver Tea Set by the one of France's Premier Silversmiths "Adolphe Boulenger" in like new condition. Silversmithing, a refined art form that marries creativity with technical precision, has a rich tradition in France. Among the luminaries of this craft, Adolphe Boulenger stands out as a paragon of excellence. Adolphe Boulenger, born in Paris in 1830, emerged during a time of artistic resurgence in France. The mid-19th century witnessed the Second Empire, a period marked by cultural and artistic revitalization under Emperor Napoleon III. This era laid the groundwork for the flourishing of craftsmanship, and Boulenger, a visionary silversmith, seamlessly integrated traditional techniques with contemporary aesthetics. The Boulenger firm swiftly gained recognition for its commitment to uncompromising craftsmanship and innovative design. Boulenger's creations were a testament to his dedication to pushing the boundaries of silversmithing. His pieces seamlessly blended functionality with artistic flair, reflecting the prevailing taste of the time. Boulenger's commitment to artistic innovation was not limited to design alone; he also experimented with materials and techniques. The firm became renowned for its mastery of chasing, repoussé, and engraving, elevating each piece to a work of art. Boulenger's silver works, like this amazing 8 piece tea set, transcended mere utility; they became expressions of beauty and craftsmanship, captivating collectors and connoisseurs alike. The accomplishments of Adolphe Boulenger and his firm are a testament to their enduring impact on the world of decorative arts. One of the firm's notable achievements was its participation in the International Exposition Universelle of 1878 held in Paris. Boulenger's- silverware garnered widespread acclaim, earning the firm a gold medal and establishing its reputation on an international scale. Boulenger's commitment to excellence extended beyond awards; it manifested in prestigious commissions from royalty, aristocracy, and discerning patrons. The firm crafted exquisite tableware, ceremonial objects, and decorative pieces for European courts and prominent figures, solidifying its status as a purveyor of luxury. Boulenger's creations adorned the dining tables of Emperor Napoleon III and Empress Eugénie, underscoring the firm's prestigious clientele. The discerning taste of these patrons served as a testament to the firm's ability to blend opulence with artistic refinement. The recognition bestowed upon Adolphe Boulenger and his firm was not limited to the International Exposition Universelle of 1878. The firm continued to garner accolades for its contributions to the decorative arts. In 1900, at the Exposition Universelle held in Paris, the Boulenger firm received the Grand Prix, the highest honor, solidifying its status as a preeminent silversmithing establishment. The Grand Prix was a reflection of the firm's sustained commitment to excellence, innovation, and artistic vision. Adolphe Boulenger's imprint on the world of French silversmithing is indelible. His firm's history, marked by artistic innovation, technical mastery, and international recognition, showcases the enduring legacy of a visionary craftsman. Boulenger's creations, characterized by their elegance and innovation, transcend mere utilitarian objects; they are timeless works of art that continue to captivate and inspire. The firm's ability to seamlessly blend tradition with contemporary aesthetics and its influence on the Art Nouveau movement underscore the significance of Adolphe Boulenger in the pantheon of decorative arts. The awards and accolades garnered by the firm serve as a testament to its enduring impact and the lasting resonance of Boulenger's vision. This is a absolutely magnificent 8 piece tea set which has been meticulously restored to like new condition. The magnificent teapot measures approximately 18.00 cm. in height to the top of the lid, roughly 23.00 cm. across from the tip of the spout to the end of the handle and weights 587 grams. It is stamped with Adolphe Boulenger sterling silver manufacturer's hallmark in addition to the French Government’s Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark, certifying a minimum of 950 sterling silver. It is in excellent condition and comes with its own anti-tarnish storage wrap for easy storage. The massive hot water holder (samovar) with heater is silver plated bronze and measures approximately 37.50 cm. in height to the top of the lid, roughly 18.50 cm. across from the tip of the spout and weights an astounding 1,819 grams. It is stamped with the Boulenger Signature hallmark on the underside. It is in excellent condition and comes with its own anti-tarnish storage wrap for easy storage. The majestic Coffee Pot is an amazing 26.00 cm. high to the top of the lid, 22.00 cm. across from the tip of the spout to the end of the handle and weights 580 grams. It is stamped with the Adolphe Boulenger Sterling Silver Hallmark as well as the French Government's Head of the Minerva 1 Hallmark certifying a minimum of 950 sterling silver. The elegant sugar bowl, with gold plated (vermeil) Interior, stands Roughly 15.00 cm. high to the top of the lid, measures approximately 17.50 cm. across to the tips of the handles and weights 422 grams. It is Stamped with the Adolphe Boulenger sterling silver manufacturer's hallmark as well as the French Government's Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark certifying a minimum of 950 sterling silver. It is in excellent condition and comes with its own anti-tarnish storage wrap for easy storage. The dainty cream pitcher with gold plated interior stands approximately 12.50 cm. high to the top of the handle, Measures 13.00 cm. across from the end of the handle to the tip of the Spout and Weights 190 grams. It is stamped with the Adolphe Boulenger Sterling Silver manufacturer's hallmark as well as the French Government's Head of the Minerva 1 Hallmark certifying a minimum of 950 sterling silver. It is in excellent condition and comes with its own anti-tarnish storage wrap for easy storage. The first salt cellar stands roughly 6.00 cm. high, is 7.50 cm. in length, 6.00 cm. wide at its widest point and weights 144 grams. The second salt cellar also measures approximately 7.50 cm. in length, 6.00 cm. wide at its widest point and weights 183 grams. The Hallmarks on the Underside of the Lids of the Two Salt Cellars. One Salt Cellar has Traces of an 18th Century Hallmark (800 Silver), the Other has 20th Century Hallmarks. The accompanying serving tray is silver plated and is also in excellent condition with no visible wearing of the silver plate. It measures approximately 65 cm. in length to the tips of it's handles, roughly 40.50 cm. across at its widest point and weights and astounding 2.5+ kilograms. It is stamped with the Boulenger Signature hallmark on the underside. It is in excellent condition and comes with its own anti-tarnish storage wrap for easy storage.

Sold As:

Set of 8

Style:

Louis XVI (In the Style Of)

Materials and Techniques:

Sterling Silver

Place of Origin:

France

Period:

1870-1879

Date of Manufacture:

1870s

Condition:

Refinished. Each of the sterling silver pieces has been meticulously restored to like new condition and each comes with its own anti-tarnish storage wrap for easy storage.

Seller Location:

Wilmington, DE

Reference Number:

1stDibs: LU9583237621782

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