Silver Plate From The Campaign Service Of Emperor Napoleon I

TAKEN FROM THE IMPERIAL BERLINE AT WATERLOO (1815) Silver plate, round in shape, with a slightly raised rim, engraved with the Imperial Arms. On the reverse: Biennais bar, no. 67 and three hallmarks (see photo): Rooster 1st standard, Paris 1809-1819 Medium guarantee hallmark, Paris 1809-1819 Goldsmith's mark with the monkey of Martin-Guillaume Biennais Historical: The 4th Prussian Cavalry Corps, commanded by Prince William of Prussia, included the 2nd Brigade of Major General von Sydow, itself integrated into the 8th Prussian Hussar Regiment, engaged in the pursuit launched on the evening of June 18, 1815. A casket containing silver tableware was discovered under the seat of the Emperor's carriage; It was broken open with an axe, and its contents divided as war booty. Martin-Guillaume Biennais (1764-1843): Established at 283 rue Saint-Honoré in Paris, under the sign "Au Singe Violet" (1790-1819). In 1804, he created the insignia for Napoleon's coronation, then supplied the silverware to the Emperor's household, signing: "Goldsmith to His Majesty the Emperor and King in Paris." He notably produced simple silver or vermeil plates for the Emperor's personal use on campaign. Related works: A comparable plate is held at the Musée Napoléon Ier in Fontainebleau, a gift from the King of the Netherlands to Napoleon III (inv. 132.70). Compare with: Rare silver field service plate, Lot 63 – Osenat, Jean-Louis Noisiez Collection – L'Empire à Fontainebleau, sale of November 19.