Maison Delheid Vermeil Sterling Silver Coffee And Tea Service – Brussels, Empire Style

Elegant four-piece tea and coffee service crafted in vermeil sterling silver (.925), comprising a large coffee pot, a teapot, a covered sugar bowl and a cream jug. The ensemble follows the refined aesthetic of the Empire style, characterized by balanced proportions, architectural forms and restrained neoclassical ornamentation.

The hallmarks visible on the underside indicate a Brussels production. The pieces bear the mark “A925”, confirming sterling silver content, together with a crowned letter “D”, associated with the Belgian silversmith Maison Delheid.

Founded in the nineteenth century in Brussels, Delheid became one of the most respected Belgian silver manufacturers, producing tableware and ceremonial silver for both private clientele and institutional use. Twentieth-century productions from the house are particularly appreciated for their precise workmanship and elegant finishing.

The set reflects a revival interpretation of the Empire style, evident in several elements:

• baluster and ovoid bodies raised on circular pedestal bases

• engraved friezes of palmettes and classical motifs inspired by antique ornament

• acorn-shaped finials on the lids, a motif frequently used in Empire decorative vocabulary

• curved ivory-tone handles recalling the ivory handles traditionally used on hot beverage services

• gracefully curved spouts with refined proportions

The sugar bowl is designed as a covered two-handled coupe, while the coffee and tea pots display tall, elegant silhouettes typical of formal European silver services.

The service is made of solid sterling silver (925/1000) and finished in vermeil, a process in which fine gold is electroplated over silver to produce a durable gilded surface.

The manufacturing process involves traditional silversmith techniques:

• raising and forming of the vessels

• hand chasing and engraving of decorative bands

• soldering of applied elements such as spouts, handles and bases

• mirror polishing creating the luminous reflective surface characteristic of high-quality vermeil silver

The ensemble displays harmonious proportions and a highly reflective surface that enhances the decorative friezes and clean architectural lines.

The combination of rich gilded silver and pale handles creates a refined visual contrast reminiscent of prestigious European table services inspired by the First Empire tradition.

Total weight: 2180 g

Coffee pot: 27 cm
Teapot: 20 cm
Sugar bowl: 12 × 19 cm
Cream jug: 12.5 cm