Large silver coffee pot, Empire, Milan, early 19th century

Large Empire coffee pot in silver from Milan, early 19th century, in good condition.

This elegant silver Empire coffee pot bears traces of the plow related to the second silver hallmark (800/000), originating from Milan and referencing the Office of Guarantee with seven hallmarks referring to the Milanese Guarantee Office from 1812-1872, as well as the F.L. silver hallmark associated with goldsmith Francesco Liverti under the Cow mark on a round field, documented until 1820 in Milan. 

This ancient coffee pot made of melted, stamped, and engraved silver has an elongated, egg-shaped central body with an engraved monogram AB, a distinct narrowing of the neck, characteristic of Milanese and Lombard coffee makers from the first quarter of the 19th century. It is mounted on a round base and features a beak decorated with a mask and topped with an eagle head. The lid has a chimera-shaped socket. The handle made of ebonized wood is connected to the body with two engraved silver fittings, the upper shaped like a delfin and the lower with phytomorphic motifs. 

It bears the aforementioned marks at the base and neck and weighs 1240 grams gross. 

The mark from 1812-1872 clearly reproduces the cow symbol and is attributed to goldsmith Francesco Liverti. However, no documentation confirming this has been found, and the feature is not included in Milanese depositions or trademark registrations. Nevertheless, it is highly probable because Liverti, born on August 14, 1765, in Ambrogio to Laura and Reina, operated a shop at his home in the Bocchetto district, 2534. Francesco Liverti died in 1820, and his business was continued by his widow until 1828. Thanks to this mark, numerous Neoclassical cutlery pieces have been identified, all elegant and well-made… G. Sambonet, Milan 1987, p. 303.

Elegant antique furniture and accessories can be an excellent idea for decorating our interiors. Today, there is a growing number of enthusiasts for high-quality vintage items that possess a distinct character and soul. It’s a nod to history, craftsmanship, and the design of classic and timeless furniture. There are many different styles in antique furniture, each with its own distinctive features.

Many styles characterize antique furniture, but a few are particularly notable. Eclectic furniture refers to the 19th century, dominated by the Biedermeier style. Its early variations include Neo-Gothic, Gothic, Rococo, Louis-Philippe style, and finally the English Victorian style. By the end of the century, these styles evolved into pseudo styles of Classicism, Renaissance, and Baroque.

Empire-style furniture and accessories date from the late 18th to early 19th century. This style was influenced by Napoleon’s reign, which imposed a strong resemblance to Roman and Greek ornamentation.

Neoclassical furniture is associated with Louis XVI style, which also draws heavily from ancient architecture. Noteworthy are antique products in Rococo style and Louis XV. The next style is Baroque, derived from the Portuguese word 'barocco'—meaning an irregularly developed pearl. These were highly decorative pieces meant to radiate splendor and play a significant role in luxury. Materials were chosen selectively to emphasize the grandeur of these items.

Today, we can see how much the Baroque style has influenced modern classical furniture, which often resembles the historical period. An important style is also Renaissance, which flourished in the 15th and 16th centuries and left a significant mark on furniture design. Renaissance furniture was quite heavy and massive, using dark stains, moldings, strong bases, and reliefs. These products were quite distinctive but also opened new possibilities, such as the construction of cabinets and broadly speaking, chest furniture. Mythology and ancient times also inspired these designs, with supports and legs often taking animal forms.

Lion paws, eagle heads – these are common sights especially in Renaissance style. Currently, many global brands reproduce furniture crafted in this style, drawing inspiration from Italian and French creators. This reflects admiration and respect for the history of the most beautiful Renaissance antiques. It is important to remember that each country perceived furniture manufacturing differently, so each style in a given nation had its own distinct character. This is especially important when searching for the perfect exclusive antique for your interior.

The most important aspect of vintage styled furniture is originality. And this is ultimately crucial from the buyer’s perspective, as the market is flooded with many counterfeit items. Luxury Products provides a certificate confirming the product’s authenticity and compliance with the description and photos. We have appraisers, art experts, historians, and specialists from around the world at your disposal.