Christofle (Cardeilhac) - 4pc. Antique French 950 Sterling Silver Tea Set + Tray

Direct from Paris, A Magnificent 10-piece Sterling Silver Tea Set by France's Premier Silversmith Cardeilhac (Christofle), "Silversmiths to the Aristocracy of Europe". The French si...

Direct from Paris, A Magnificent 8-piece Sterling Silver Tea Set by one of France's Premier French Silversmith "Boin-Taburet", and includes 6 Faberge Imperial Egg espresso cups and saucers in fine Limoges porcelain. The world of silver-smithing has witnessed the rise and fall of many notable firms throughout its history. In the realm of French silver-smithing, the name "Boin-Taburet" stands as a symbol of enduring excellence, innovation, and craftsmanship. Fabergé, a name synonymous with opulence, craftsmanship, and unparalleled luxury, has captivated the world for over a century. The brand's remarkable journey from a modest Russian jewelry atelier to a symbol of prestige and sophistication is a testament to its enduring legacy. In 1885 Tsar Alexander III commissioned a lavish Easter egg for his wife, Empress Maria Feodorovna. This magnificent piece, known as the Hen Egg, was an extraordinary fusion of artistry and engineering, setting the stage for what would become Faberge’s most iconic creations - the Imperial Easter Eggs. The Imperial Easter Eggs, a series of intricately designed and meticulously crafted eggs, became the hallmark of Fabergé's artistry. Peter Carl Fabergé and his team of skilled artisans poured their hearts and souls into creating these masterpieces, which were intended as gifts from the Russian Tsars to their wives and mothers. The history of Boin-Taburet is closely linked to the two families that merged to create this iconic firm. The story begins with the Boin family, where Alexis Boin, a skilled silversmith, laid the foundation of the firm. Boin's craftsmanship and artistic abilities were quickly recognized, and his works gained prominence during the early 19th century. The Taburet family, on the other hand, was equally esteemed in the silver-smithing world. Auguste Taburet, known for his intricate designs and fine workmanship, brought the Taburet name to the forefront of French silver-smithing. It was the union of these two families through marriage in 1845 that established the firm known as "Boin-Taburet." The Imperial Easter Eggs not only showcased Fabergé's technical prowess but also solidified the brand's reputation as the jeweler to the Russian imperial family. They were exquisite symbols of love and devotion, and their creation marked a collaborative effort between Fabergé and the Romanov dynasty. The quality and craftsmanship of Boin-Taburet's silverware, exemplified in this stunning tea set, earned the firm a well-deserved reputation. Notably, Boin-Taburet received royal patronage from Emperor Napoleon III, which marked a significant milestone in their history. This recognition catapulted the firm to new heights, and they began creating exquisite pieces for the French royal court. Their exceptional work was displayed at prestigious international exhibitions, further enhancing their reputation on the global stage. The firm's achievements were not limited to France, as Boin-Taburet's pieces found homes in royal collections around the world. This is an amazing 8 piece set and in each of the sterling pieces have been professionally restored to near new condition. The majestic Samovar (Water Fountain) stands roughly 39.00cm. high to the top of the lid, is approximately 23.00cm. across to the tip of the spout and weights 2,270 grams. It bears the French Government's Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark, certifying a minimum of 950 sterling silver, in addition to the Henin Frères sterling silver manufacturer's hallmark and is stamped "Boin-Taburet a Paris" on the underside. The Coffee server stands roughly 21.50cm. high to the top of the lid, is approximately 22.00cm. across to the tip of the handle and weights 698 grams. It bears the French Government's Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark, certifying a minimum of 950 sterling silver, in addition to the Henin Freres sterling silver manufacturer's hallmark and is stamped "Boin-Taburet a Paris 49213 16" on the underside. The Teapot is roughly 18.50cm. high to the top of the lid, approximately 22.50cm. across from the tip of the spout to the outside of the handle and weights 701 grams. It also bears the French Government's Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark, certifying a minimum of 950 sterling silver, in addition to the Henin Freres sterling silver manufacturer's hallmark and is stamped "Boin-Taburet a Paris 49208 16" on the underside. The Hot Chocolate server stands roughly 22.00cm. high to the top of the lid, is approximately 21.00cm. across to the tip of the handle and weights 733 grams. It bears the French Government's Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark, certifying a minimum of 950 sterling silver, in addition to the Henin Frères sterling silver manufacturer's hallmark and is stamped "Boin-Taburet a Paris 51103 17" on the underside. The elegant Sugar Bowl stands approximately 17.00cm. high to the top of the lid, roughly 13.50cm. across to the outside of the handles and weights 560 grams. It bears the French Government's Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark, certifying a minimum of 950 sterling silver, in addition to the Henin Frères sterling silver manufacturer's hallmark and is stamped "Boin-Taburet a Paris 49665 16" on the underside. The Cream Pitcher stand approximately 11.00cm. high to the top of the handle, is roughly 12.00cm. across from the tip of the spout to the outside of the handle and weights 195 grams. It bears the French Government's Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark, certifying a minimum of 950 sterling silver, in addition to the Henin Frères sterling silver manufacturer's hallmark and is stamped "Boin-Taburet a Paris 49214 16" on the underside. The sturdy Candy / Biscuit Dish is roughly 6.00cm. high, approximately 15.00cm. in length to the tips of the handles and weights 275 grams. It also bears the French Government's Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark, certifying a minimum of 950 sterling silver, in addition to the Henin Frères sterling silver manufacturer's hallmark and is stamped "Boin-Taburet a Paris 48511 16" on the underside. The massive serving tray is approximately 63.70cm. in length, 51.00cm. across at its widest point and weights in excess of 3,100 grams. It also bears the French Government's Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark, certifying a minimum of 950 sterling silver, in addition to the Henin Freres sterling silver manufacturer's hallmark and is stamped "Boin-Taburet a Paris" on the underside. "The Imperial Swan Egg...