Tableware
Important 24-carat gilt metal and crystal aperitif set, 19th century, Napoleon III period.
Silver-plated cake tin, Napoleon III period, 19th century.
Ercuis cutlery set, 20th century.
Ercuit dinner service, 20th century.
1950s-1960s design ice bucket.
Welcome to our "Art de la Table" category, where we celebrate the material cultures and aesthetic traditions of the table through the ages. This collection covers a wide range of periods, styles and techniques, offering a complete panorama of tableware, from ancient works to contemporary creations.
Ancient and medieval heritage
In ancient civilizations such as Greece, Rome and China, the art of the table was strongly linked to social and religious rituals. Pieces from this period often display a complexity of design and craftsmanship that reflect their cultural importance. Medieval objects, with their sturdiness and often utilitarian decoration, bear witness to the living conditions of the time, but also to the evolution of craft techniques.
Renaissance and Baroque
During the Renaissance and Baroque periods, the art of the table became a veritable spectacle of power and taste. European courts used porcelain, silverware and crystal glasses as demonstrations of wealth and sophistication. Objects from this period are characterized by elaborate ornamentation and manufacturing techniques that were perfected over time.
Global influences on Modernity
As colonial empires expanded their territories, new materials and techniques were introduced to Europe and America, enriching the art of the table. The importation of Chinese and Japanese porcelain, in particular, had a profound impact, inspiring local factories such as Meissen in Germany, and Sévres in France, to develop their own distinct styles.
The Contemporary Era
In the contemporary era, tableware merges tradition and innovation, as modern designers explore new materials and aesthetic approaches. Contemporary designs tend towards minimalism or functionalism, while sometimes incorporating ecological elements to address modern concerns. Ceramists and designers such as Issey Miyake and Marc Newson are redefining what it means to set a table, transforming the everyday acts of eating and drinking into aesthetic and sensory experiences.
Explore Our Collection
Our tableware collection offers a journey through the history of these fascinating objects. Each piece is chosen not only for its beauty and style, but also for the story it tells about the people, periods and cultures from which it comes. Whether you're interested in refined porcelain, ornate silverware, delicate glassware, or modernist tableware, you'll find objects that speak to both your aesthetic sense and your interest in history.
We invite you to explore this collection, take part in workshops, visit exhibitions, and engage in conversations around the art of the table. Discover how these utilitarian objects are transformed into works of art, and how they can enrich every aspect of daily life.