Odiot – 17pc Napoleon III Gold Plated Sterling Silver (Vermeil) Decanter Set

The world of decorative arts has been enriched over centuries by the creations of remarkable artisans, whose skills and craftsmanship have left an indelible mark on history. Among these, the name Odiot stands as a testament to the heights that French silver-smithing can achieve. Jean-Baptiste-Claude Odiot (1763-1850) was an influential figure in the world of silver-smithing during the late 18th and early 19th centuries in France. His work not only epitomized the artistic and technical achievements of his time but also played a significant role in shaping the history of decorative arts in France.

Jean-Baptiste-Claude Odiot was born on April 24, 1763, in Paris, France. His education included formal training as well, and he attended the prestigious École des Beaux-Arts in Paris. This academic background enabled Odiot to fuse classical artistic elements with the technical precision of silversmithing, setting the stage for his innovative and influential career. Odiot’s formal training also allowed him to gain a deeper appreciation for the fusion of art and craftsmanship, a principle that would become central to his work.

Odiot’s influence extended far beyond his individual creations. He was a key figure in the evolution of French decorative arts during a critical period in history. Odiot’s work and vision were deeply entwined with the political and social climate of his time. The Revolution’s impact on the French monarchy led to the rise of Napoleon Bonaparte and the establishment of the French Empire.

Odiot, like many other artisans of his time, adapted his work to suit the tastes of the empire, like this magnificent 17 piece liquor serving set. His neoclassical designs, with their classical references and grandeur, appealed to the new ruling elite. Napoleon himself was known to be a patron of Odiot, and many of the pieces produced during this period bore the imperial insignia. Odiot’s pieces became coveted treasures, sought after by collectors and connoisseurs across the world.
His innovative designs, technical excellence, and artistic mastery continue to be celebrated and sought after by collectors, museums, and silversmiths alike. Many of Odiot’s pieces can be found in renowned institutions such as the Louvre Museum and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

This amazing serving set consists of: 4 Decanters with Vermeil Base and Vermeil Bobbin, 12 Vermeil Shot Glasses and Serving Platter with Vermeil Border and Decanter Holders. Each of the 4 decanters with vermeil base and bobbin, measures roughly 22.50cm. in height, is 7.50cm. across at its widest point and they have an average weight of 485 grams. Each is also stamped on the underside “Mon. Odiot, Prevost & Cie 5014” and each bears the French Government’s Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark certifying a minimum of 950 sterling silver in addition to the “Odiot Prevost” sterling silver manufacturer’s hallmark. Each of the 12 vermeil shot glasses with glass inserts (1 glass insert is missing) is stamped on the underside “Mon. Odiot” and is stamped with the “Odiot, Prevost & Cie” manufacturers sterling silver hallmark as well as the French Government’s Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark certifying a minimum of 950 sterling silver. Each measures approximately 5.00cm. high, is 5.50cm. across to the end of the handle and weights 56 grams. The Serving Platter with vermeil (gold plated 950 sterling silver) border, decanter holders and serving handles; is stamped on the lower border “Mon. Odiot, Prevost & Cie 5014”. It is also stamped with the “Odiot / Prevost & Cie” manufacturer’s sterling silver hallmark as well the French Government’s Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark certifying a minimum of 950 sterling silver. It measures approximately 47.00cm. in length to the end of the handles, 33.00cm. across at its widest point and weights 3,806 grams without the decanters and shot glasses and 6,413 grams with the decanters and the shot glasses.