Continental Europe - Sterling Silver

English sterling silver fruit basket by James Deakin & Sons, 1928 A rectangular English silver fruit basket raised on a base. A Sheffiel...

Direct from Paris, a magnificent 5pc., original French Art Deco 950 sterling silver tea set by French silversmiths “Ernst Prost” and “Olier & Caron” in superb condition and includes 5 anti-tarnish storage wraps for easy storage – circa early 1900s. The world of silversmithing has long been synonymous with elegance, craftsmanship, and luxury. Throughout history, certain artisans have stood out as true masters of their craft, combining artistic vision with technical expertise to create timeless works of art. Among these luminaries is Ernst Prost, a French silversmith whose legacy is defined by extraordinary craftsmanship, royal patronage, prestigious accolades, and a body of work that bridges tradition and modernity. His most celebrated creations, particularly his exquisite Art Deco 950 sterling silver tea sets, embody the refinement and innovation that made him one of the foremost silversmiths of his time. Ernst Prost was born into a family of craftsmen in the late 19th century, at a time when French silversmithing was undergoing a period of great transformation. Prost's early exposure to the craft, combined with formal training under some of the leading silversmiths of the time, laid the foundation for his career. From a young age, Prost exhibited a natural talent for working with silver, and he quickly developed a reputation for his meticulous attention to detail and his innovative approach to design. After completing his apprenticeship, Prost established his own workshop in Paris, where he began producing silver objects that were marked by their precision and artistic flair. His early work adhered to the classical styles that had dominated French silversmithing for centuries, but Prost was also eager to experiment with new forms and techniques. As his career progressed, Prost increasingly embraced the modernist aesthetics of the Art Deco movement, which would come to define much of his later work. Prost’s work is distinguished by a number of key characteristics that set it apart from that of his contemporaries. First and foremost, Prost was known for the exceptional quality of his craftsmanship. Every piece that came out of his workshop was a testament to his technical skill and his dedication to perfection. Prost was a master of traditional silversmithing techniques, including hand-hammering, engraving, and repoussé. He also pioneered new methods, experimenting with different finishes and textures to enhance the visual and tactile qualities of his work. Prost's attention to detail extended to every aspect of his creations, from the overall design to the smallest decorative elements. His pieces were meticulously planned and executed, often featuring intricate engravings, geometric patterns, and floral motifs. Prost had a particular talent for integrating form and function, ensuring that even his most elaborate pieces were practical and easy to use. By the early 20th century, the Art Deco movement had begun to sweep across Europe, influencing everything from architecture to fashion to industrial design. Characterized by its emphasis on geometric shapes, clean lines, and bold decorative elements, Art Deco represented a departure from the ornate, flowing forms of the Art Nouveau movement that preceded it. Instead, Art Deco embraced modernity, celebrating technology and innovation while still retaining a sense of luxury and elegance. Ernst Prost was profoundly influenced by the Art Deco movement, and many of his most celebrated works reflect its aesthetic principles. Prost's Art Deco silver pieces are marked by their bold geometric forms, streamlined designs, and the use of strong, symmetrical patterns. His tea sets, in particular, embody the elegance and simplicity that are hallmarks of the Art Deco style. Prost’s Art Deco tea sets often featured angular, stepped designs, with handles and spouts that mirrored the sharp, geometric lines of the overall composition. The surfaces of these tea sets were typically polished to a high sheen, creating a striking contrast with the engraved or embossed decorative elements. Prost also made extensive use of natural motifs in his Art Deco designs, incorporating stylized representations of flowers, leaves, and animals into his silverwork. These decorative elements were often rendered in a highly stylized, almost abstract manner, in keeping with the Art Deco aesthetic. One of the most notable features of Prost’s Art Deco tea sets is the way in which they balance form and function. While the designs are undeniably modern and avant-garde, they are also practical and user-friendly. Prost paid careful attention to the ergonomics of his tea sets, ensuring that the handles were comfortable to hold, the spouts poured smoothly, and the lids fit securely. This combination of beauty and functionality is one of the reasons why Prost’s tea sets remain so highly prized by collectors and connoisseurs. These tea sets are celebrated not only for their striking beauty but also for their durability and practicality. Crafted from the finest 950 sterling silver, Prost’s tea sets are known for their radiant finish and exceptional craftsmanship. Prost’s tea sets were also notable for their balanced proportions and ergonomic design. The handles of the teapots and cups were designed to be both aesthetically pleasing and comfortable to use, while the spouts were carefully engineered to ensure a smooth, drip-free pour. Even the smallest details, such as the finials on the lids and the hinges on the sugar bowls, were meticulously crafted to ensure both functionality and beauty. Ernst Prost's exceptional craftsmanship and innovative designs did not go unnoticed by the elite of his time. His work soon attracted the attention of European royalty, who were always on the lookout for the finest artisans to create luxurious objects for their homes and palaces. Prost’s reputation as a master silversmith made him a natural choice for royal commissions, and he quickly established himself as a favorite among the nobility. Prost's relationship with royalty was one of mutual admiration. The French royal family, in particular, became frequent patrons of his work, commissioning everything from elaborate tableware sets to ceremonial objects. Prost’s ability to combine traditional silversmithing techniques with modern Art Deco design made him particularly well-suited to creating pieces that were both functional and symbolic of royal power and prestige. One of Prost’s most notable commissions came from King George V of England, who requested an Art Deco tea set for his private collection. This commission was a significant honor for Prost, as it demonstrated that his work had gained international recognition and was sought after by some of the most discerning clients in the world. The tea set Prost created for King George was a masterpiece of Art Deco design, featuring sleek geometric forms, elegant engravings, and the finest 950 sterling silver. Ernst Prost’s career was marked by numerous awards and accolades, reflecting both the quality of his craftsmanship and the innovative nature of his designs. His participation in international exhibitions allowed him to showcase his work to a global audience, and his Art Deco tea sets, in particular, were frequently singled out for praise. One of the highlights of Prost’s career came in 1925, when he exhibited at the International Exhibition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts in Paris, the event that is widely credited with popularizing the Art Deco movement. Prost’s work was displayed alongside that of other leading silversmiths, but it was his tea sets that garnered the most attention. The judges were particularly impressed by the way Prost had managed to incorporate the bold, geometric forms of Art Deco into functional objects, and he was awarded a grand prize for his contributions to the exhibition. In addition to his royal patrons, Prost’s work was also sought after by wealthy collectors and connoisseurs around the world. His tea sets and other silver objects became status symbols for those who could afford them, and owning a piece by Prost was seen as a mark of refined taste and sophistication. Ernst Prost’s impact on the world of silversmithing and decorative arts extends far beyond his own lifetime. His work set a new standard for quality and craftsmanship, and his innovative designs helped to define the aesthetic of the Art Deco movement. Prost’s ability to blend traditional silversmithing techniques with modern design principles ensured that his work remained relevant and influential even as tastes and trends changed. Prost’s legacy is also reflected in the many artisans he trained and mentored over the course of his career. His workshop in Paris became a center of excellence for silversmithing, attracting young craftsmen from across Europe who sought to learn from the master. Many of Prost’s apprentices went on to become successful silversmiths in their own right, carrying forward the techniques and principles that Prost had instilled in them. Today, Ernst Prost is remembered as one of the greatest silversmiths of the Art Deco era, and his work continues to be admired by collectors, museums, and connoisseurs around the world. His Art Deco tea sets in particular, like this amazing 4 piece set, remain highly sought after for their beauty, craftsmanship, and historical significance. Prost’s creations can be found in some of the most prestigious collections, including the Louvre in Paris, the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. This amazing 950 sterling silver art deco tea set...

Elegant, festive silver vessel with a wide oval body, naturalistically domed, the lower section curved and overlapping, with four protruding bars forming feet resting on the base and...

Sculpture representing a walking lion in Sterling Silver, the base in eudialyte. 800 Silver hallmark Italian work from the middle of the 20th century in Milan Total height: 15 cm ...

Renaissance-style round sterling silver entree dish. The bottom of the entree dish is smooth, while a border made with the casting technique with acanthus leaf motifs has been welded...

Empire silver lidded jug with a stepped, funnel-shaped foot on a square plinth, a large fluted ring decorated with acanthus leaves, in which the smooth, raised bulbous vessel rests, ...

Silver stunning coffee / tea set in Baroque Style, Germany. Manufactured by J.D. Schleissner & Sons (Hanau), made circa 1890. This set consists of various parts: Coffee pot hei...

This awesome Table Box Baroque style is in 925/1000 sterling silver. it has a Rectangular shape with hand-engraved intricate design Black and Green color fire enameled. Table Box Bar...

Table set formed by three cups in solid silver and cut crystal. The rockery-style tripod base with acanthus leaves and arabesque decoration supports a cut crystal cup. on each side a...

Representative elegant silver jardinière on oval, fluted stepped base, bordered by palmette bands, on top arranged in a lozenge four slender, fluted columns with Corinthian-like fanc...

Silver Austrian gorgeous liqueur set of most elegant appearance. Particular Feature: Set in original glass case! Elegant showcase / cabinet with black stained wooden frame. Glas...

Servizio di posate da dolce in argento sterling HENRY WILKINSON composto da 24 pezzi con custodia in legno. ORIGINE Sheffield, Inghilterra PERIODO 1872 MARCA Manufactured by HENRY...

Purse cigarette case, oval section in 925/1000 sterling silver gold plated with two-color enameled stripes. Early 20th century English style. Measures 9 x 4.3 x 2.6 cm. Weight 96 g. ...

Direct from Paris, A Magnificent 4 pc. 19th Century 950 Sterling Silver Louis XVI Gravy Boat with Presentation Platter and Two Sterling Silver Inserts and Noble Crest by the World's Premier French Silversmith Jean-Baptiste Odiot, Absolutely Stunning - circa late 1800s. Jean-Baptiste Claude Odiot, an illustrious French silversmith, significantly influenced the decorative arts in Europe during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. His remarkable craftsmanship, innovative designs, and the opulence of his creations earned him an esteemed place amongst the royal and aristocratic patrons of his time. Born in 1763 in Paris, Jean-Baptiste Claude Odiot was destined to be a silversmith, a craft that ran in his family. He apprenticed under his grandfather, Jean-Baptiste Gaspard Odiot, and later under the renowned silversmith Jean-Baptiste-Claude Roettiers. This training period was crucial as it grounded him in the traditional techniques of the trade while also exposing him to the evolving tastes of the French aristocracy, preparing him for a successful career. Odiot's work was marked by meticulous attention to detail and a robust embrace of the neoclassical style, which became prevalent in the late 18th century. His ability to blend artistic beauty with functional design set his pieces apart. Odiot introduced a range of innovative techniques in silverwork, including his use of the repoussé method to create intricate raised patterns, and chasing, to refine and detail these designs. His mastery over silver casting and gilding also allowed him to produce pieces with exceptional quality and durability, making them highly prized collectibles. The prestige of Jean-Baptiste Odiot was significantly enhanced by his association with European royalty. His rise to fame coincided with the period of Napoleon Bonaparte, who was an avid patron of the arts. Odiot received substantial commissions from the imperial family, including a famous 179-piece dinner service for Napoleon’s wedding to Marie-Louise of Austria in 1810. This patronage not only secured Odiot's financial success but also established his reputation as a purveyor of luxury goods suitable for the highest echelons of society. Recognition of Odiot's talent came not only from his royal and aristocratic patrons but also from various artistic institutions. He was awarded the Legion of Honour by Napoleon, a testament to his influence and status in the arts. Moreover, Odiot's participation in exhibitions, such as the Exposition des Produits de l'Industrie Française, garnered him critical acclaim, enhancing his stature and legacy in the decorative arts. Among Odiot's diverse oeuvre, his sterling silver gravy servers...

Rectangular table clock with rounded vertical sides in 925/1000 sterling silver with translucent fired enamel on guilloche, in Art Nouveau style from the early 1900s. Hand-engraved e...

Very important TABLE CENTER in solid silver mounted on a pedestal and placed on an openwork frame, the sockets are largely foliated; Medallion decoration and Louis XVI ribbon. Dimens...

Set of five sterling silver crabs forming a box Italian work circa 1970 Total weight: 417 grams Length between 5.5 and 11 cm Width between 4.5 and 7.5 cm Height between 1.5...

An elegant pair of Art Deco silver and bakelite salt shakers from 1935. Designed by Eric Pihlgren for GAB (Guldsmedsaktiebolaget), Stockholm Sweden and dated I8 = 1935.   

Large solid silver coffee pot with flat bottom, ovoid body, carved ebony handle, fixed with an umbel flower decoration. We find this same decoration under...

Elegant, festive silver vessel with a three-part architectural design: Elongated boat-shaped base with low, flared sides, cut out at the bottom and resting on eight points on the flo...

Pre-owned goods are exempt from import duties for U.S. customers. Therefore, no import tariffs will be applicable to your purchase. Georg Jensen, "Acanthus". Three butter knives in...

Silver Austrian gorgeous set of most elegant appearance: Coffee pot Milk pot Creamer Sugar bowl manufactured, circa 1922-1925 Items of this set are manufactured in elegant st...

Bombe' chased circular form with scroll handles gilt interior on pedestal. Marked underneath, Portugal, 1820. Measures: 19.5 cm. depth. 14.5 cm. width. 19.0 cm. height. 474 gm.

Inkwell in agate set in a vermeil mount. The agate cut is closed by a finely chiseled lid of foliage patterns and whose grip is adorned with a head of putti. The handle, which is dec...

Table service WALLACE Sterling Great Baroque 925 silver consisting of 61 pieces: > 12 tablespoons > 12 forks > 12 knives > 12 teaspoons > 12 forks > 1 teaspoon sauce ORIGIN United ...

Art Deco Modernist tea and coffee set in sterling pure silver, vermeil and rosewood by Jean E. Puiforcat created in the 1930s. Service including: - a...

Measuring 55mm in length and 18mm in height this small cigar cutter can be used as a keychain pendant or hidden away in your package of cigars. The handle is made from 925s silver se...

Very nice silver tray. Nicely decorated on edges with flower engravings.

Dutch silver and crystal spoon vase with twelve spoons, 1910 Silver and crystal spoon vase with pearl pattern rims and the crystal is facet cut crystal ...

Table clock in 925/1000 sterling silver gold plated with translucent fire enamel on guilloché and fine hand engravings. The clock has a base of cm. 4 x 10 and is rectangular cm. 8 x...

Rectangular table box with inward corners in gold-plated 925/1000 sterling silver with translucent enamel fired on guilloche and a fine round miniature in the centre, diameter cm. 4....

Georg Jensen Pyramid. Compote spoon in sterling silver. Dating: After 1945. Hallmarked. In excellent condition. Dimensions: L 10.0 cm.

Sterling silver centrepiece, made in Italy - ag/925/g 1860 Crafted in our workshop in Milano Ganci Argenterie - Hallmark 110MI - one of the oldest Italian Silversmith.         

Silver Gorgeous Wine Cooler or Bottle Holder Vintage / made in Switzerland (Geneva). Excellently manufactured nicest bowl made of massive silver, with two handles ( = highest manufacturing quality !) : The bowl can be used as cooler for white wine or champagne where ice cubes have to be put into or it has the function of a red wine bottle's holder (look at the picture, please !) . The elegant silver bowl's surface is decorated with lines, further with leaves, flower's blossoms as well as with floral ornaments of stylized type: The manufacturing technique is that of chiselled / chasing work. ____________________________________________________________ MADE CIRCA 1900 branded by SWISS HALLMARK: mark deriving from Geneva existing (= Eagle with Key) SILVER 925 inscription ' COLLET ' visible ( = it is a Swiss seller's mark, deriving from Geneva ) ____________________________________________________________ HEIGHT: 12.0 cm circa 4.8 inches WIDTH: 30.0 cm circa 12.0 inches SILVER WEIGHT: 1003 GRAMS 35.38 OZ PLEASE NOTE: Our offer is including an old bottle of red wine here: The red wine is deriving from France / Bordeaux (Grand Vin de Bordeaux...

Elegant silver jardinière in an elliptical base shape on four ball feet, straight vertical walls with regular vertical openings, structured by rhythmically placed pilasters with reli...

An elegant pair of Austro-Hungarian neoclassical silver candlesticks. Each on circular foot, engraved with flower panels, slightly tapering stem...

Especially for a table in three parts of half-moon shape with a bottom of mirrors, mounted on an oak parquet, silver-plated metal ingot mold with double evolution. Small lack in the ...

Magnificente handcrafted sterling silver water jug inspired by a piece in the collection of Museo Poldi Pezzoli in Milan. The incomparable chisel work reproduces the motif with leaves and flowers typical of 17th century. Pradella Ilario...

Double sauce boat in solid silver plain decor, mounted on four foliated legs, monogrammed, placed on a adherent tray. Dimensions: width 26 cm - depth 20 cm - height 12 cm Material: s...

Elegant silver jardinière in elliptical basic form on four lion paw feet with volute attachment, straight vertical wall with regular openings in the form of rhythmically staggered co...

Whistle made of gilded silver The decoration consists of diamonds covering an anchor. Additionally there is a small handle shaped as a steering wheel. Original casket existing! ...

Important centerpiece in solid silver represented by a covered tureen mounted on four winding feet and placed on its tray. Richly decorated with Bérain engravings, edging of gadroons...

"Goldsmith Tetard - Art Deco Solid Silver Tray Circa 1930" Octagonal shaped top mounted with a hammer, flat double-thin rim, flanked on each side by geometric handles. Dimensions: le...

A Dutch 19th century silver corkscrew A Dutch 19th century silver corkscrew with an oval pointed handle. The corkscrew has a smooth surface with a ...

The scalloped centerpiece, with a mirror bottom on an oak parquet floor, is surrounded by a solid silver ingot mold decorated with strong nets and staples. The center rests on six sc...

Dutch 19th century silver chatelaine with 4 cachets and charms Silver chatelaine with 4 cachets and charms. The charms are a very small miniature knife...

**Rare and Collectible Primitive Chinese Antique Silver Stand / Tazza, 1800s** Elevate your collection with this exquisite and rare Chinese antique silver stand, or tazza, dating ...

Elegant silver vessel in the shape of a tulip with a wide opening on a stepped stand, the wall and foot with curved folds, the upper rim profiled and turned outwards, two raised roca...

Description Queen Victoria sterling silver salver, Martin, Hall & Co Ltd, London, 1888. Victorian salver circular shape with shell borders and scrolls on four feet. Signed Martin, Ha...

Ornate large sugar caster for strawberries, pancakes etc. Its fashioned from delicately hammered solid silver indicated by the 3 towers to its base. Subtle jugend styling...

Rare 1930s silver planter in octagonal oval shape with canted sides mounted on a pedestal, flanked by two small side handles. The body is plain, the lining is in silver metal. “MD” m...

Small, finely crafted Baroque silver lidded box resting on four elegantly scrolled feet. The body features gently undulating sides and a domed lid. Hallmarked on the base with the to...

Set of seven toiletry accessories in 925 sterling silver and tortoiseshell, early 20th century. Consists of a mirror, a pair of perfume bottles, a jar and three brushes. The mirror m...

Silver black enameled box by Leo Wagner, 1921-1922 An octagonal Austrian (Vienna) silver black enameled with a gold-plated interior box made by Le...

Important Refresher in solid silver on a round Portor marble base flanked by two handles, the body united in the shape of a trapeze. Dimensions: height 32 cm - length at the handles ...

Dutch silver ginger place setting by Pieter van Geelen, 1884 A Dutch silver ginger place setting by Pieter van Geelen (worked during 187...

Box in hammered solid silver, spherical in shape, the lid is surmounted by a round socket decorated with a flattened button. Dimensions: diameter 24.5 cm - base diameter 17 cm height...

Gorgeous 6 beakers plus tray, completely handmade. Beakers are in sterling 925°°/°°° The cup is smooth and the stem is cast and finished by chisel. The two-tone, silver and gold br...

Finest condiment set, consisting of ruby red glass bottles, with silver stoppers. Vintage / made in Vienna (1854). Please note: These most elegant glass bottles had once been pa...

Austrian excellent Biedermeier silver pair of candlesticks, made 1855. Very interesting Viennese silver pair of candlesticks of excellent manufacturing quality as well as of eleg...