Elegant 4-Piece French Empire Style Silver-Plated Tea & Coffee Service by Orfèvrerie Phénix (ca. 1920-1930s) Description: An exquisite and complete 4-piece antique/vintage silver-plated coffee and tea set crafted in the timeless French Neoclassical (Empire) style. Manufactured by the renowned French silversmith Orfèvrerie Phénix (Lyon, France) during the interwar period, circa 1920-1930s. This elegant service features sophisticated, amphora-like silhouettes resting on stepped circular pedestal feet. It is heavily adorned with classic Empire design elements, including beautifully sculpted pinecone (pineapple) finials on the lids—a traditional symbol of hospitality and abundance-and intricate, crisp geometric ornamental friezes running along the upper rims and bases. Each piece is fitted with its original, gracefully scrolled dark wooden handle, providing a striking organic contrast to the brilliant silver and serving as an effective heat insulator. 9 Detailed Overview of the Set Elements: • 1. Large Coffee Pot: The tallest and most imposing piece of the collection. It features an elongated, stately body with a high-arching elegant spout. The hinged lid is topped with a detailed pinecone finial. The large, sweeping wooden handle provides a comfortable and secure grip for pouring. • 2. Teapot: Slightly shorter and more bulbous in shape than the coffee pot to allow proper tea leaf infusion. It mirrors the exact design with an identical hinged lid, pinecone finial, and an gracefully curved spout decorated at the base. • 3. Covered Sugar Bowl: A beautifully proportioned, double-handled vessel standing on a proud pedestal foot. It features two elegant, upward-sweeping silver side handles. The fully removable lid is capped with the matching signature pinecone finial. • 4. Creamer / Milk Jug: A charming, handle-forward pouring jug with a wide, stylishly flared rim and an integrated lip for smooth serving. It features a perfectly scaled wooden handle that matches the design of the larger pots. Hallmarks & Provenance: The undersides of the pieces feature authentic and clear French silver-plate (métal argente) stamps: • "PHENIX" cartouche: The official maker's mark of the prestigious Orfevrerie Phenix • The number "18" in a square shield: The official French technical stamp indicating the high-quality, heavy-gauge silver plating applied during fabrication, ensuring long-lasting durability and shine. • "P" and "S" master marks: Specific workshop/successors stamps guaranteeing its genuine French heritage. Condition Report: • Silver Plating: Excellent antique condition with a high-luster finish. The silver layer is thick and well-preserved. Only minimal, honest surface wear and micro-scratches consistent with age and gentle use. No bleeding of the base metal. • Wooden Components: All original wooden handles are structurally sound, tightly secured to the bodies, and free from cracks or splits. The original dark finish is beautifully preserved. • Functionality: All lids open and close flush. The hinge mechanism on the pots is sturdy and operates smoothly. The interiors are clean and usable.