Sterling Silver Coffee or Tea Service from Spaulding & Co., 1890s, Set of 4

Details

Description

A monumental work of art that embodies aristocratic luxury between the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This extraordinary set … Read more A monumental work of art that embodies aristocratic luxury between the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This extraordinary set in solid 925 sterling silver represents an exceptional and rare cultural and artisanal bridge between european manufacturing expertise and elite american fine jewelry.
the heart of this set lies in its exclusive genesis, evidenced by the historical hallmarks stamped on the back. The structure and sculptural forms bear the signature of vmf (württembergische metallwarenfabrik), the undisputed leader in continental jugendstil and art nouveau design. The raw bodies were imported, finished, and entirely hand-chiseled for distribution by spaulding & co., the legendary chicago and paris house known as the "tiffany of the midwest."
specifications:
material: solid 925/1000 sterling silver (guarantee of purity and eternal intrinsic value).
monumental weight: 1680 grams total, an impressive consistency that denotes the absolute quality of the silver sheet used.
repoussé & chasing process: the dense floral motifs that entirely cover the bodies of the pieces were created by beating the silver sheet from the inside (embossing) to create the relief, and refined down to the smallest detail from the outside (chasing). This is a deep and virtuosic manual repoussée. Each surface is embellished with a dense and sinuous floral decoration, characterized by roses, leaves, and scrolls that capture the light with the incredible dynamism typical of the baltimore style.
catalog rarity: the model number 72 stamp identifies one of the very first historical series of the manufacture (dated between 1888 and 1895), making it a piece of museum importance.
composition:
serving tray: the centerpiece of the set, a fully engraved silver stage where the central mirror reflects the elements above.
coffee/teapot: monumental and topped with a domed lid with a finely crafted knob, it features a handle with elegant scrollwork typical of the period, with black insulating rings (likely ebony or bakelite) to prevent burns during solitary service, and an exquisitely crafted swan-neck spout. The slender line of the coffee/teapot rests on a circular foot.
sugar bowl: with wide, opposing handles that echo the geometric and floral lines of the set.
milk jug: perfectly proportioned, mirrored in design and finished with the same mastery. This piece has an attribution mark,
i am sure that it is completely authentic and take full responsibility for any authenticity
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