Set of 12 Biennais French Empire Plates with Hanover Dynasty Arms

Set of 12 Empire silver gilt dinner plates. Made by Martin Guillaume Biennais in France. Each: Round and curved well, tapering shoulder, and cast rim with acanthus leaf border on lined ground. Biennais was Napoleon’s favorite silversmith, and was responsible for many important commissions including the services that Napoleon bestowed on his vast network of relations when they consolidated the family’s power through marriage.

The plates here are engraved with the arms not of the Bonaparte or Beauharnais clans, but the Hanover dynasty, which had ascended to the throne of England nearly a century before. There are the lion and unicorn associated with the English royal arms, and underneath is the Hanover motto Suscipere et Finire (translation: Support and Finish). In 1803, the French (with help from the Prussians) invaded Hanover and incorporated it into the Kingdom of Westphalia, which was ruled by Napoleon’s brother Jérôme. Jérôme and his wife Frenchified local taste by importing the latest in Parisian high style.

A bit of a mystery these plates, which were made by the conqueror and bear the conquered’s arms. Maybe a conciliatory gesture or even an attempt to “rub it in.” Another possibility: A private commission by a scion of the Anglo-German dynasty susceptible to the Francophilia that was never completely extinguished among the ruling classes even during the darkest days of the Napoleonic Wars.

A desirable addition to the dinner party dating from another divided era.

Fully marked (1798-1809). Weight scratch marks on verso. Very good condition with nice toning.

Dimensions: H 1 x D 9 3/8 in. Total weight: 209 troy ounces. #BZ852