A French first standard silver six piece tea and coffee service with two handled tray
Fanniere Freres, Paris
1868
Comprising a double spout kettle on stand, a teapot, a coffee pot, a hot milk jug, a cream jug, a covered sugar bowl and a two handled tray, engraved and applied initial T, underside of tray inscribed FANNIERE FRES Orfevres Paris 1868. (7)
the kettle height 15 1/2in (39cm); width 12 1/2in (32cm); depth 10in (25.5cm); the tray length over handles 37 1/2 in (95cm); weight approximately 550oz troy
Footnote:
Nephews and pupils of the goldsmith Jacques-Henri Fauconnier (1779-1839), Francois-Auguste (1818-1900) and his brother Joseph-Louis Fanniere (1820-1897) counted amongst the most highly respected Parisian goldsmiths and jewellers of the nineteenth century. Apart from large-scale goldsmith’s work including centrepieces and racing prizes, they also created jewellery and smaller-scale objects, initially supplying distinguished firms such as Froment-Meurice and Wiese before participating in Expositions Universelles under their own name. Their first gold medal was awarded at the 1862 International Exhibition in London, followed by another in Paris in 1867, and Grand Prix at the 1878 and 1889 Expositions Universelles.

Very finely made and highly detailed. Heavy gauge. General marks, scratches, scattered dings, rubbing, wear and tarnishing. Traces of gilding remaining in areas, notably to strapwork of handles. Would benefit from proper, gentle cleaning. Polish residue to crevices. Handle to coffee pot slightly loose. Central section of kettle handle loose - damage to insulators. Would benefit from repair.