Boin-Taburet centerpiece, late 19th century.

Centerpiece. BOIN TABURET. Paris, late 19th century.
Sterling silver.
With punches on the base.
Weight: 10 kg.
Measurements: 24 x 46 x 40 cm.

Boin-Taburet is considered one of the most prestigious silverware firms in the world. Their centerpieces, known as "jardinières" are their most praised pieces for their exquisite combination of elegance, quality and craftsmanship. The centerpiece shown here is proof of this exquisiteness. It consists of an oval tray with removable compartments and a large lobed cup, from which the inner bowl can also be removed. The cup, in the form of a four-leaf clover, has a carefully embossed vegetal work based on festoons and garlands in its openwork structure. The foliate top with foliate coping is also a removable piece. The tray and the upper bowls are joined by finely chiseled feet in the form of scrolls. With this type of piece, Boin-Taburet has systematically set the standard for luxury silver centers.

The two French goldsmiths George Boin and his son-in-law Emile Taburet founded the Boin-Taburet company in Paris around 1875. They made numerous silver pieces inspired by the beautiful services of the 18th century. At the 1878 Paris Universal Exhibition, Georges Boin presented a "service de toilette" inspired by the work of François-Thomas Germain (1726-1791), and then, at the 1889 Universal Exhibition, several epergnes, including one made from drawings by the famous artist Juste-Aurèle Meissonier (1695-1750), as well as tea sets in the Louis XIV, Louis XV and Louis XVI styles. The firm Boin-Taburet also exhibited in 1863 a tureen and fountain after that of Pierre Germain (1645-1684) for the Jockey Club, then located on Rue Scribe in Paris. Through its lavish events at various international salons, the Boin-Taburet company contributed to the revival of 18th century styles.

Boin-Taburet's reputation for excellence soon attracted the attention of European aristocracy and royalty. The brand's pieces were coveted by the most discerning clients, including members of the French royal family and other members of the European nobility. This royal patronage not only elevated Boin-Taburet's status, but also served as a testament to the exceptional quality and craftsmanship of its work. One of Boin-Taburet's most notable patrons was the French Empress Eugénie, wife of Napoleon III. Empress Eugénie was known for her refined taste and appreciation for the arts, and commissioned numerous pieces from Boin-Taburet for the royal household. These pieces, characterized by their intricate designs and exquisite craftsmanship, were often used at state banquets and other official functions, further cementing Boin-Taburet's reputation as a purveyor of luxury silverware. In addition to Empress Eugenie, Boin-Taburet also counted other members of European royalty among its clientele. Its pieces were favored by the likes of Queen Victoria of England and King Alfonso XIII of Spain, among others. This extensive royal patronage not only increased the brand's prestige, but also contributed to its international appeal and recognition.