Puiforcat - Artistic silversmith since 1820
The visionary silversmith Puiforcat
A legend of European silversmithing. Founded in 1820 by the brothers Emile and Joseph-Marie Puiforcat, the manufactory soon established itself as a purveyor of silverware to various royal courts. Today, Puiforcat supplies cruise ships, star hotels, presidents and discerning private customers with exceptional silver cutlery and silver accessories.
From the silver cutlery of kings to the Art Deco style revolution
In 1922, a design revolution replaced the Louis-quinze and Régence styles previously cultivated by Puiforcat. This upheaval was heralded by the grandson of the company's founder, Jean Emile Puiforcat.
Inspired by the new architectural style of Art Deco, he reduced the once popular ornaments of the Baroque to a minimum or dispensed with them completely. Instead, he favoured smooth surfaces, clear forms and pleasing proportions.
The pioneering design language of Jean Emile Puiforcat has been an integral part of Puiforcat's DNA ever since. Iconic tableware collections such as the Cannes cutlery from 1928 are still produced today by Orfèvrerie Puiforcat in silver of the highest quality.
Elegant precision in perfect craftsmanship
Jean Emile Puiforcat is considered one of the most important silversmiths of the Art Deco period. Some of his works have found their way into the Louvre as renowned works of art. With his credo of the "rebirth of craftsmanship" and his sculptural and abstract forms, he had a lasting influence on the silver art of the 20th century: "Our silversmiths know that a finished piece should not show any hammer marks", Puiforcat emphasised. To this day, the silversmiths work with uncompromising care.
Pure sophistication from stainless steel to sterling silver
The Puiforcat silversmiths cultivate their heritage from the classical and art deco eras and at the same time design the classics of tomorrow.
The "Elysée" cutlery in sterling silver is a highlight of the style of the Régence. The excellence of the cutlery pattern has been approved by the government of France as it is the official silverware of the Élysée Palace, the official residence of the French President.
The "Cannes" cutlery in sterling silver is one of the first and most famous designs of the Art Deco genius Jean Puiforcat. Like a liberating blow, the design has been set free of all unnecessary ornamentation. The cutlery model retained a special place in the heart of its designer, who had the tables of his own wedding set with it.
Pouiforcat designs stainless steel cutlery, silver-plated cutlery and sterling silver cutlery. The cutlery models and the material used are firmly entwined. Each collection exists in only one version to exploit the full potential of the chosen material. As such, the modern "Guethary" cutlery in stainless steel is not a more affordable variant of another design. Since 1926, the stainless steel cutlery pattern has inspired generations with unparalleled harmony, modernity and refinement.
In addition to cutlery, Puiforcat produces other essential elements of a sophisticated table setting. Discover silverplated bowls made of rosewood, precious silver trays, Limoges porcelain dinnerware refined with platinum, champagne coolers made of solid sterling silver, silver vases and candlesticks by Puiforcat at Artedona.
