Pair Of French Silver-Mounted Glass Wine Ewers. Tetard Freres. Paris

An elegant pair of French wine ewers dating from the early twentieth century, crafted from clear cut glass mounted in richly ornamented silver. Produced by the renowned Parisian firm Tetard Freres, these refined vessels are exemplary works of French Art Nouveau table silver, harmoniously combining practical function with the graceful plasticity of naturalistic ornament. Each ewer features a rounded body of vertically cut glass raised on a broad, moulded silver foot enriched with finely chased vegetal decoration. The tall neck is enclosed within an openwork silver mount embellished with emerging shoots, scrolling foliage and floral motifs. The elegantly curved handles follow the silhouette of the vessel and terminate in stylised botanical forms, seamlessly integrating the silver framework with the transparent glass body. The hinged covers, gilt to the interior, are surmounted by sculptural finials of figural design. The interplay of crystal-clear glass, the cool brilliance of silver and the warm glow of gilding lends the pair remarkable visual depth and refinement. The precision of the chased relief, the fluidity of the lines and the meticulous attention to detail are hallmarks of the exceptional craftsmanship associated with the finest productions of Tetard Freres. Preserved as a matching pair, these wine ewers represent a significant acquisition for collectors of French silver and fine Belle Epoque tableware. Hallmarks: French silver hallmark depicting the head of Minerva within an octagonal cartouche. Lozenge-shaped makers mark of Tetard Freres. Paris, after 1903. The Minerva hallmark confirms French silver; the precise silver standard should be verified by examination of the original mark. Dimensions: Height of each ewer: 30 cm. Condition: Very good collectors condition. Minor surface wear to the silver consistent with age and careful use.