Hénin & Cie - Bottle Cooler In Solid Silver 950/1000 With Ram's Head Decoration,

Hénin & Cie - 950/1000 sterling silver bottle cooler with ram's head decoration, Paris, 1885

Description

Elegant 950/1000 solid silver bottle cooler made by the prestigious Parisian firm of Hénin & Cie, a major figure in French silversmithing in the second half of the XIXᵉ century. Intended for export, this piece bears the Mercury head hallmark guaranteeing the grade of 950/1000, the first French silver grade.

With beautifully sober lines inspired by the Louis XVI style, this freshener adopts a baluster form resting on a circular pedestal. Its decoration focuses on the upper and lower friezes, finely chased with stylized plant motifs, as well as on two remarkable applique mascarons featuring ram heads treated with great attention to detail. These sculpted elements bring strength and character to the whole, while retaining a perfect elegance.

The interior retains its old vermeil, whose warm patina testifies to the age of the piece. An engraved inscription "July 7, 1885" appears inside, presumably corresponding to a presentation, presentation or commemoration date.

The interior is decorated with an elegant and harmonious design.

With its harmonious proportions, the quality of its workmanship and the reputation of its maker, this freshener perfectly illustrates the refinement of late 19thᵉ century French tableware. It will naturally find its place within a collection of fine silverware or in a classic interior.

Features

• Smith : Hénin & Cie, Paris
• Material: sterling silver 950/1000
• Punch: head of Mercury (export)
• Era: late XIXᵉ century
• Engraved date: July 7, 1885
• Style: Louis XVI
• Decor: ram heads and foliage friezes
• Interior: formerly vermeillé
• Height: 23.5 cm
• Entry diameter: 10.5 cm
• Weight: 730 g
• Condition: very good condition, with slight traces of use and minor deformations compatible with age, without affecting the presentation of the piece