Louis XVI Silver Coffee Pot And Covered Sugar Bowl By The Silversmith Louis Coignet, Paris

An elegant set comprising a small coffee pot (verseuse égoïste) and a covered sugar bowl in solid silver (950/1000).

Both pieces are of baluster form, raised on spreading pedestal bases, and finely decorated in Louis XVI taste with bands of reeded ribbon-tied friezes and beaded borders. The domed lids are topped with seed-shaped finials resting on radiating foliate terraces.

The sugar bowl has two scrolling handles formed as ribbon-tied foliate bundles, with acanthus leaf clasps. The coffee pot, which may be used as a teapot or a small coffeepot, features a spout adorned with a shell motif at the base and an acanthus leaf at the tip. It is fitted with a shaped rosewood handle. The interior of the sugar bowl is entirely parcel-gilt.

Hallmarks (on both pieces and their respective lids):

• French Minerva 1st standard (950/1000 silver)

• Maker’s mark: LC, with a crossed carving knife and fork, for Louis COIGNET, 20 rue Barbette, Paris, 1893–1928.

Measurements:

• Coffee pot: H. 15.5 cm – L. 14 cm – D. 8 cm – Weight: 188 g

• Sugar bowl: H. 11.6 cm – L. 10 cm – D. 7.5 cm – Weight: 154 g
  Total weight: 342 g

Condition report
Very good condition. Fine surface scratches consistent with age and use. Excellent polish, difficult to fully capture in photographs. Interiors in superb condition.

Louis COIGNET, master silversmith active at 20 rue Barbette in Paris between 1893 and 1928, produced refined works inspired by the great classical styles. This ensemble, with its elegant balance and sober yet noble ornamentation, perfectly reflects the late 19th-century taste for faithful reinterpretations of the Louis XVI style.