{"product_id":"puiforcat-hermes-cardeilhac-christofle-182-piece-antique-french-sterling-silver-flatware-set-storage-chests","title":"Puiforcat (Hermes) \u0026 Cardeilhac (Christofle): 182-piece Antique French Sterling Silver Flatware Set + Storage Chests !","description":"\u003c!--French silversmiths, Puiforcat silverware, Cardeilhac flatware, 19th century sterling silver, antique French silver, 950 silver standard, luxury silver flatware, Hermès Puiforcat, Napoleon III silverware, royal silverware collections, French Empire silver, Art Deco silverware, antique silver flatware sets, sterling silver craftsmanship, French luxury tableware, vintage silverware patterns, Puiforcat Olympia pattern, Cardeilhac Chantilly design, European silver makers, high-end silver flatware, collectible silverware, French hallmarked silver, antique silver valuation, Second Empire silver, silversmithing techniques, 19th century tableware, French aristocratic silver, rare silver flatware, investment-grade silverware, museum-quality silver--\u003e\u003c!--French silversmiths, Puiforcat silverware, Cardeilhac flatware, 19th century sterling silver, antique French silver, 950 silver standard, luxury silver flatware, Hermès Puiforcat, Napoleon III silverware, royal silverware collections, French Empire silver, Art Deco silverware, antique silver flatware sets, sterling silver craftsmanship, French luxury tableware, vintage silverware patterns, Puiforcat Olympia pattern, Cardeilhac Chantilly design, European silver makers, high-end silver flatware, collectible silverware, French hallmarked silver, antique silver valuation, Second Empire silver, silversmithing techniques, 19th century tableware, French aristocratic silver, rare silver flatware, investment-grade silverware, museum-quality silver--\u003e\u003c!--French silversmiths, Puiforcat silverware, Cardeilhac flatware, 19th century sterling silver, antique French silver, 950 silver standard, luxury silver flatware, Hermès Puiforcat, Napoleon III silverware, royal silverware collections, French Empire silver, Art Deco silverware, antique silver flatware sets, sterling silver craftsmanship, French luxury tableware, vintage silverware patterns, Puiforcat Olympia pattern, Cardeilhac Chantilly design, European silver makers, high-end silver flatware, collectible silverware, French hallmarked silver, antique silver valuation, Second Empire silver, silversmithing techniques, 19th century tableware, French aristocratic silver, rare silver flatware, investment-grade silverware, museum-quality silver--\u003e\u003c!--French silversmiths, Puiforcat silverware, Cardeilhac flatware, 19th century sterling silver, antique French silver, 950 silver standard, luxury silver flatware, Hermès Puiforcat, Napoleon III silverware, royal silverware collections, French Empire silver, Art Deco silverware, antique silver flatware sets, sterling silver craftsmanship, French luxury tableware, vintage silverware patterns, Puiforcat Olympia pattern, Cardeilhac Chantilly design, European silver makers, high-end silver flatware, collectible silverware, French hallmarked silver, antique silver valuation, Second Empire silver, silversmithing techniques, 19th century tableware, French aristocratic silver, rare silver flatware, investment-grade silverware, museum-quality silver--\u003e\u003c!--French silversmiths, Puiforcat silverware, Cardeilhac flatware, 19th century sterling silver, antique French silver, 950 silver standard, luxury silver flatware, Hermès Puiforcat, Napoleon III silverware, royal silverware collections, French Empire silver, Art Deco silverware, antique silver flatware sets, sterling silver craftsmanship, French luxury tableware, vintage silverware patterns, Puiforcat Olympia pattern, Cardeilhac Chantilly design, European silver makers, high-end silver flatware, collectible silverware, French hallmarked silver, antique silver valuation, Second Empire silver, silversmithing techniques, 19th century tableware, French aristocratic silver, rare silver flatware, investment-grade silverware, museum-quality silver--\u003e\u003c!--French silversmiths, Puiforcat silverware, Cardeilhac flatware, 19th century sterling silver, antique French silver, 950 silver standard, luxury silver flatware, Hermès Puiforcat, Napoleon III silverware, royal silverware collections, French Empire silver, Art Deco silverware, antique silver flatware sets, sterling silver craftsmanship, French luxury tableware, vintage silverware patterns, Puiforcat Olympia pattern, Cardeilhac Chantilly design, European silver makers, high-end silver flatware, collectible silverware, French hallmarked silver, antique silver valuation, Second Empire silver, silversmithing techniques, 19th century tableware, French aristocratic silver, rare silver flatware, investment-grade silverware, museum-quality silver--\u003e\n\u003cstyle type=\"text\/css\"\u003e\n p.MsoNormal\n\t{margin-top:0in;\n\tmargin-right:0in;\n\tmargin-bottom:5.0pt;\n\tmargin-left:0in;\n\ttext-align:justify;\n\tfont-size:12.0pt;\n\tfont-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;\n\t}\n.style1 {\n\tfont-family: Arial;\n}\n.style2 {\n\tfont-family: Arial;\n\tfont-weight: bold;\n}\n.style3 {\n\tfont-size: medium;\n}\n\u003c\/style\u003e\n\u003c!--French silversmiths, Puiforcat silverware, Cardeilhac flatware, 19th century sterling silver, antique French silver, 950 silver standard, luxury silver flatware, Hermès Puiforcat, Napoleon III silverware, royal silverware collections, French Empire silver, Art Deco silverware, antique silver flatware sets, sterling silver craftsmanship, French luxury tableware, vintage silverware patterns, Puiforcat Olympia pattern, Cardeilhac Chantilly design, European silver makers, high-end silver flatware, collectible silverware, French hallmarked silver, antique silver valuation, Second Empire silver, silversmithing techniques, 19th century tableware, French aristocratic silver, rare silver flatware, investment-grade silverware, museum-quality silver--\u003e\u003c!--French silversmiths, Puiforcat silverware, Cardeilhac flatware, 19th century sterling silver, antique French silver, 950 silver standard, luxury silver flatware, Hermès Puiforcat, Napoleon III silverware, royal silverware collections, French Empire silver, Art Deco silverware, antique silver flatware sets, sterling silver craftsmanship, French luxury tableware, vintage silverware patterns, Puiforcat Olympia pattern, Cardeilhac Chantilly design, European silver makers, high-end silver flatware, collectible silverware, French hallmarked silver, antique silver valuation, Second Empire silver, silversmithing techniques, 19th century tableware, French aristocratic silver, rare silver flatware, investment-grade silverware, museum-quality silver--\u003e\u003c!--French silversmiths, Puiforcat silverware, Cardeilhac flatware, 19th century sterling silver, antique French silver, 950 silver standard, luxury silver flatware, Hermès Puiforcat, Napoleon III silverware, royal silverware collections, French Empire silver, Art Deco silverware, antique silver flatware sets, sterling silver craftsmanship, French luxury tableware, vintage silverware patterns, Puiforcat Olympia pattern, Cardeilhac Chantilly design, European silver makers, high-end silver flatware, collectible silverware, French hallmarked silver, antique silver valuation, Second Empire silver, silversmithing techniques, 19th century tableware, French aristocratic silver, rare silver flatware, investment-grade silverware, museum-quality silver--\u003e\u003c!--French silversmiths, Puiforcat silverware, Cardeilhac flatware, 19th century sterling silver, antique French silver, 950 silver standard, luxury silver flatware, Hermès Puiforcat, Napoleon III silverware, royal silverware collections, French Empire silver, Art Deco silverware, antique silver flatware sets, sterling silver craftsmanship, French luxury tableware, vintage silverware patterns, Puiforcat Olympia pattern, Cardeilhac Chantilly design, European silver makers, high-end silver flatware, collectible silverware, French hallmarked silver, antique silver valuation, Second Empire silver, silversmithing techniques, 19th century tableware, French aristocratic silver, rare silver flatware, investment-grade silverware, museum-quality silver--\u003e\u003c!--French silversmiths, Puiforcat silverware, Cardeilhac flatware, 19th century sterling silver, antique French silver, 950 silver standard, luxury silver flatware, Hermès Puiforcat, Napoleon III silverware, royal silverware collections, French Empire silver, Art Deco silverware, antique silver flatware sets, sterling silver craftsmanship, French luxury tableware, vintage silverware patterns, Puiforcat Olympia pattern, Cardeilhac Chantilly design, European silver makers, high-end silver flatware, collectible silverware, French hallmarked silver, antique silver valuation, Second Empire silver, silversmithing techniques, 19th century tableware, French aristocratic silver, rare silver flatware, investment-grade silverware, museum-quality silver--\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!--French silversmiths, Puiforcat silverware, Cardeilhac flatware, 19th century sterling silver, antique French silver, 950 silver standard, luxury silver flatware, Hermès Puiforcat, Napoleon III silverware, royal silverware collections, French Empire silver, Art Deco silverware, antique silver flatware sets, sterling silver craftsmanship, French luxury tableware, vintage silverware patterns, Puiforcat Olympia pattern, Cardeilhac Chantilly design, European silver makers, high-end silver flatware, collectible silverware, French hallmarked silver, antique silver valuation, Second Empire silver, silversmithing techniques, 19th century tableware, French aristocratic silver, rare silver flatware, investment-grade silverware, museum-quality silver--\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e \u003cspan class=\"style3\"\u003eDirect from Paris:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style3\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style3\"\u003eA stunning 182-piece antique sterling silver flatware set by two of France’s premier silversmiths “Puiforcat”, currently owned by Hermes, and “Cardeilhac \/ Christofle”, Silversmith to the King – circa late 1800s. The set is a complete service for 12 and includes extra dinner forks, Mother-of-Pearl handled dessert knives with vermeil blades, a set of vermeil teaspoons, silver plate knife blade rests and individual storage trays. The 19th century marked a golden era for French decorative arts, particularly in the realm of silversmithing. Among the most celebrated houses of this period were Puiforcat and Cardeilhac, whose names became synonymous with uncompromising quality, technical innovation, and aristocratic elegance. These ateliers did not merely produce functional silverware; they created enduring works of art that reflected the highest achievements of French craftsmanship. Their pieces graced the tables of emperors and kings, won accolades at international exhibitions, and set standards that continue to influence luxury metalwork today.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in; font-family: Arial; font-size: medium;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e \u003cspan class=\"style3\"\u003ePuiforcat’s Early Years:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style3\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style3\"\u003eThe story of Puiforcat begins in 1820 when Jean-Baptiste Fuchs established his silversmith workshop in Paris. Initially operating under the name Fuchs et Compagnie, the firm underwent a significant transformation when it was acquired by Emile Puiforcat in the 1840s, from whom it derived its enduring name. Under successive generations of the Puiforcat family, the maison developed a distinctive style that blended rigorous technical precision with artistic innovation.\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003e By the late 19th century, Puiforcat had established itself as the silversmith of choice for discerning European aristocracy. Their clientele included not only French nobility but also wealthy industrialists and international collectors who appreciated the firm's ability to create both traditional and avant-garde designs. The maison's participation in major international exhibitions, including the 1867 Paris Exposition Universelle, brought its creations to a global audience and cemented its reputation for excellence.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in; font-family: Arial; font-size: medium;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e \u003cspan class=\"style3\"\u003eThe Evolution of Cardeilhac:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style3\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style3\"\u003eThe Cardeilhac legacy began slightly earlier than Puiforcat, with Jean-Baptiste Cardeilhac establishing his workshop in 1802 during the Napoleonic era. The firm quickly distinguished itself through its exceptional technical mastery and sumptuous designs that captured the grandeur of French Empire style. Cardeilhac's rise to prominence reached its zenith during the Second Empire when it became the official supplier to Napoleon III's court.\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e   \u003c\/span\u003eCardeilhac's workshop employed the most skilled artisans in Paris, many of whom had trained in the traditional guild system. Their specialty lay in creating elaborate table services that combined functionality with breathtaking artistry. The firm was particularly renowned for its mastery of repoussé work, where silver was ornamented with intricate floral motifs, mythological scenes, and architectural elements hammered from the reverse side.\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eWhat made Cardeilhac's work exceptional was its attention to proportion and balance. Each piece in their flatware services was designed to feel perfect in the hand, with carefully calculated weight distribution that made even the most ornate designs practical for daily use. The firm's account books reveal commissions from nearly every European royal house, with special services created for state occasions and diplomatic gifts.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style3\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in; font-family: Arial; font-size: medium;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in; font-size: medium;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style2\"\u003eTechnical Mastery \u0026amp; Innovative Techniques: \u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style1\"\u003eThe workshops of Puiforcat and Cardeilhac were centers of technical innovation where centuries-old traditions met modern manufacturing techniques. Both firms maintained the highest standards of craftsmanship while developing new methods that pushed the boundaries of what could be achieved in silver.\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eTheir craftsmen developed specialized tools for different effects - from the subtle matte grain of their \"satiné\" finish to the dramatic fluted patterns seen in their Art Deco pieces. The firm also pioneered new methods for silver-gilding, creating two-tone effects that became highly fashionable in the late 19th century.\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in; font-family: Arial; font-size: medium;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in; font-family: Arial; font-size: medium;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eCardeilhac, meanwhile, perfected the art of precision casting, allowing for incredibly detailed sculptural elements in their flatware handles and hollowware. Their engraving department employed techniques adapted from jewelry-making to create miniature masterpieces on spoon bowls and fork shoulders. Perhaps most impressive was their development of weighted hollow handles - a construction method that gave their pieces substantial heft without making them unwieldy.\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eBoth firms maintained rigorous quality control, with each piece undergoing multiple inspections before receiving the maker's mark. The process from raw silver ingot to finished tableware could take weeks or even months for particularly elaborate services, reflecting an uncompromising commitment to perfection.\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in; font-family: Arial; font-size: medium;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e \u003cspan class=\"style3\"\u003eRoyal Patronage \u0026amp; International Acclaim:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style3\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style3\"\u003eThe prestige of Puiforcat and Cardeilhac was inextricably linked to their royal clientele, whose patronage served as the ultimate endorsement of quality. These connections began with the French imperial court but soon extended across Europe's aristocratic networks.\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003ePuiforcat counted among its clients King Louis-Philippe and later supplied extensive services to the Russian Imperial family. Their work for the Romanovs included special traveling sets with custom-fitted cases, demonstrating their ability to combine luxury with practicality. The firm's reputation reached across the Atlantic as well, with commissions from American millionaires during the Gilded Age.\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eCardeilhac's imperial connections were even more direct, serving as official purveyor to Napoleon III's court at the Tuileries Palace. The firm created monumental centerpieces and elaborate dinner services for state occasions, many featuring the imperial eagle motif. Their work for foreign royalty included a spectacular service for the King of Portugal that incorporated precious stones and enamel work.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style3\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in; font-family: Arial; font-size: medium;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in; font-family: Arial; font-size: medium;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eBoth firms were regular participants in international exhibitions, where they competed for prestigious awards. The 1851 Great Exhibition in London saw Cardeilhac awarded a Council Medal for a magnificent épergne that demonstrated unprecedented technical complexity. Puiforcat's triumphs included gold medals at both the 1867 and 1900 Paris Expositions, where their modernist designs attracted particular attention from progressive collectors.\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in; font-family: Arial; font-size: medium;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in; font-size: medium;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style2\"\u003eThe Golden Age of Flatware:\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style1\"\u003eThe 19th century witnessed the apogee of formal dining culture, and with it came unprecedented demand for luxurious flatware services. Both Puiforcat and Cardeilhac rose to this challenge, creating services that represented the pinnacle of the silversmith's art.\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003ePuiforcat's flatware designs evolved through several distinct phases. Their early 19th century services followed Neoclassical lines, with slender stems and restrained decoration. By mid-century, they had developed more sculptural forms, often incorporating naturalistic elements like vine leaves and wheat sheaves. The firm's late 19th century Art Nouveau pieces featured flowing organic forms that seemed to grow from the table itself.\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in; font-family: Arial; font-size: medium;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in; font-family: Arial; font-size: medium;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eCardeilhac maintained a more formal aesthetic throughout the century, with services that reflected the grandeur of the French Empire style. Their flatware handles often featured intricate allegorical scenes or architectural motifs rendered in miniature. The firm was particularly known for its \"service complet\" - comprehensive sets that might include up to 100 different piece types, each designed for a specific culinary purpose.\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eWhat distinguished both firms' flatware was the exceptional quality of their 950 silver. This higher purity allowed for sharper detail in casting and engraving, while also giving the pieces a distinctive warm glow. The weight and balance of each piece was carefully calculated - a well-made fork should feel substantial but not heavy, with the weight distributed to make cutting effortless.\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in; font-family: Arial; font-size: medium;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e \u003cspan class=\"style3\"\u003eThe Association with Hermès:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style3\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style3\"\u003eThe 20th century brought changes to the world of luxury silver, culminating in Puiforcat's acquisition by Hermès in 1993. This merger of two French luxury traditions ensured the survival of traditional silversmithing techniques into the modern era.\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e   \u003c\/span\u003eHermès has maintained Puiforcat's heritage while introducing contemporary designs. The maison continues to produce flatware using the original techniques, with some pieces still made by hand in the traditional manner. Recent collections have reinterpreted classic Puiforcat patterns for century tastes 21\u003csup\u003est\u003c\/sup\u003e, while maintaining the uncompromising quality that made the originals so prized. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003csup\u003e\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e \u003cspan class=\"style3\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/sup\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in; font-family: Arial; font-size: medium;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e \u003cspan class=\"style3\"\u003eThe Enduring Artistry of French Silver:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style3\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style3\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style3\"\u003eThe stories of Puiforcat and Cardeilhac represent more than just the history of two luxury firms; they reflect the broader narrative of French decorative arts. In an age before mass production, these ateliers maintained standards of craftsmanship that seem almost unimaginable today. Each piece they created was not merely an object, but a testament to centuries of accumulated skill and artistry.\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eWhat makes their 19th century flatware services particularly significant is how they embody the cultural values of their time. These were objects designed for ritual - for the ceremony of dining that was so central to aristocratic and bourgeois life. The care with which each fork was balanced, the thought given to how a spoon would feel in the hand - these considerations speak to a worldview that valued sensory experience and social connection.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style3\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in; font-family: Arial; font-size: medium;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in; font-family: Arial; font-size: medium;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eToday, as we rediscover the importance of craftsmanship and sustainability, the work of Puiforcat and Cardeilhac takes on new relevance. Their pieces were made to last generations, to be repaired rather than replaced, to develop character with use rather than deteriorate. In this sense, these 19th century silversmiths might be seen as pioneers of what we now call slow design - the antithesis of today's disposable culture.\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eFor collectors and connoisseurs, Puiforcat and Cardeilhac pieces represent the ultimate in silver collecting. Each service tells a story - of the craftsmen who made it, the patrons who commissioned it, and the meals it has served. In an increasingly digital world, these tangible connections to history and craftsmanship become ever more precious.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in; font-family: Arial; font-size: medium;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e \u003cspan class=\"style3\"\u003eSet Composition:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style3\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style3\"\u003eThis is a magnificent 182-piece flatware set and is a testament to the quality and craftsmanship for which the firms were international known.\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eThe dinner knives and luncheon knives bear the Cardeilhac sterling silver manufacturers hallmark in addition to the French government’s Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark and the knife blades are stamped “Cardeilhac \/ Christofle”.\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eThe vermeil blades on the Mother-of-Pearl handled dessert knives bear the “PF” manufacturer’s hallmark. The vermeil teaspoons are also from a different manufacturer and earlier period.\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eThe remaining sterling pieces bear the Puiforcat sterling silver manufacturer’s hallmark in addition to the French government’s Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark.\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eThe set includes the following (all weights and measures approximate): \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in; font-size: medium;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in; font-family: Arial; font-size: medium;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003c!-- [if supportFields]\u003e\u003c![endif]--\u003e12\u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e        \u003c\/span\u003eDinner Knives - Stainless Blades C\u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e      \u003c\/span\u003e24.80 cm. \u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e       \u003c\/span\u003e106 grams\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in; font-family: Arial; font-size: medium;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e12\u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e        \u003c\/span\u003eDinner Forks \u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e   \u003c\/span\u003e20.70 cm. \u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e       \u003c\/span\u003e99 grams\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in; font-family: Arial; font-size: medium;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e12\u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e        \u003c\/span\u003eExtra Dinner Forks\u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e      \u003c\/span\u003e20.70 cm. \u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e       \u003c\/span\u003e99 grams\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in; font-family: Arial; font-size: medium;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e12\u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e        \u003c\/span\u003eTablespoons\u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e   \u003c\/span\u003e21.00 cm. \u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e       \u003c\/span\u003e101 grams\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in; font-family: Arial; font-size: medium;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e11\u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e        \u003c\/span\u003eLuncheon Knives - Stainless Blades C\u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e 20.50 cm. \u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e       \u003c\/span\u003e72 grams\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in; font-family: Arial; font-size: medium;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e12\u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e        \u003c\/span\u003eLuncheon \/ Dessert Forks\u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e       \u003c\/span\u003e17.00 cm. \u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e       \u003c\/span\u003e49 grams\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in; font-family: Arial; font-size: medium;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e12\u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e        \u003c\/span\u003eLuncheon \/ Dessert Spoons\u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e   \u003c\/span\u003e17.00 cm. \u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e       \u003c\/span\u003e54 grams\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in; font-family: Arial; font-size: medium;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e12\u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e        \u003c\/span\u003eDessert Knives - Mother of Pearl Handles and Vermeil Blades 18.50 cm. 31 grams\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in; font-family: Arial; font-size: medium;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e12\u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e        \u003c\/span\u003eFish Knives \u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e     \u003c\/span\u003e 21.30 cm. \u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e       \u003c\/span\u003e73 grams\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in; font-family: Arial; font-size: medium;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e12\u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e        \u003c\/span\u003eFish Forks\u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e        \u003c\/span\u003e17.30 cm. \u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e       \u003c\/span\u003e59 grams\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in; font-family: Arial; font-size: medium;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e12\u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e        \u003c\/span\u003eIce Cream Spoons\u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e       \u003c\/span\u003e13.80 cm. \u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e       \u003c\/span\u003e34 grams\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in; font-family: Arial; font-size: medium;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e18\u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e        \u003c\/span\u003eTea \/ Coffee Spoons\u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e    \u003c\/span\u003e11.70 cm. \u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e       \u003c\/span\u003e28 grams\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in; font-family: Arial; font-size: medium;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e12\u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e        \u003c\/span\u003eTeaspoons in Vermeil (different unidentified)\u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e           \u003c\/span\u003e15.00 cm. \u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e       \u003c\/span\u003e17 grams\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in; font-family: Arial; font-size: medium;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e12\u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e        \u003c\/span\u003eKnife Blade Rests - Silverplate\u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e8.20 cm. \u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e         \u003c\/span\u003e22 grams\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e1\u003cspan class=\"style1\" style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style3\"\u003e          \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style3\"\u003eCake \/ Pie Serving Knife C\u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e       \u003c\/span\u003e26.00 cm. \u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e       \u003c\/span\u003e 140 grams\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e1\u003cspan class=\"style1\" style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style3\"\u003e          \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style3\"\u003eCheese Serving Knife C\u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e           \u003c\/span\u003e21.50 cm. \u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e       \u003c\/span\u003e63 grams\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e2\u003cspan class=\"style1\" style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style3\"\u003e          \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style3\"\u003eLarge Serving Spoons\u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e25.70 cm. \u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e       \u003c\/span\u003e143 grams\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e2\u003cspan class=\"style1\" style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style3\"\u003e          \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style3\"\u003eSauce Serving Ladles\u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003e18.80 cm. \u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e       \u003c\/span\u003e95 grams\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e1\u003cspan class=\"style1\" style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style3\"\u003e          \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style3\"\u003eLarge Soup \/ Stew Serving Ladle\u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e        \u003c\/span\u003e31.00 cm. \u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e       \u003c\/span\u003e247 grams\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e1\u003cspan class=\"style1\" style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style3\"\u003e          \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style3\"\u003eIce Cream Serving Scoop\u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e        \u003c\/span\u003e24.80 cm. \u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e       \u003c\/span\u003e115 grams\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e1\u003cspan class=\"style1\" style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style3\"\u003e          \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"style3\"\u003ePie Serving Knife \u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e        \u003c\/span\u003e 26.00 cm. \u003cspan style=\"mso-tab-count: 1;\"\u003e       \u003c\/span\u003e123 grams\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in; font-family: Arial; font-size: medium;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"OnlineSilver.Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47281062052059,"sku":"PC182-072025","price":45499.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0646\/1348\/2715\/files\/Puiforcat-Cardeilhac170pcantiqueFrenchLouisXVIsterlingsilverflatwareset-setcomplete-1005.jpg?v=1754994786","url":"https:\/\/www.onlinesilver.store\/products\/puiforcat-hermes-cardeilhac-christofle-182-piece-antique-french-sterling-silver-flatware-set-storage-chests","provider":"Estate-Sterling.com","version":"1.0","type":"link"}