Francis I Coffee and Tea Set by Reed & Barton

This outstanding seven-piece silver coffee and tea service is crafted by the renowned silversmiths Reed & Barton in the Francis I pattern. Celebrated as one of America’s most magnificent sterling silver patterns, Francis I stands in tribute to both classic Renaissance and elaborate Baroque styling. Each piece in this complete service is adorned with skillfully hand-chased and embossed classical shapes and applied hand-cast mounts. Comprised of a hot water kettle, teapot, coffee pot, creamer, covered sugar bowl, waste bowl and tray, the set is a true masterpiece from this celebrated company.

Established in 1824, Reed & Barton enjoys a reputation as one of the oldest silver-manufacturing firms in the United States. They have long been renowned as a pioneer in the art of silversmithing, and are celebrated for the superior craftsmanship and eye for detail in all of their work. The Francis I pattern is their most recognized achievement, featuring 15 different and unique fruit clusters in total.

The Francis I pattern was introduced by Reed & Barton in 1906, after years of careful planning by designer Ernest Meyer. Meyer’s goal was to emulate the incredible artistry of the 16th-century court of King Francis I of France, for whom the pattern is named. Taking the throne in 1515, King Francis I is remembered today for the dazzling splendor of the art and architecture produced during his reign. Reed & Barton’s Francis I, as seen in this remarkable service, epitomizes that same magnificence of detail and boldness of ornamental relief for which the era was renowned.

Each piece stamped "Reed & Barton Sterling / Francis I" with the horseshoe date mark for 1948

Kettle: 13 1/2” high
Tray: 30 3/4” wide x 22" deep