Terrine and salver
by GERMAIN, François-Thomas, Silver gilt, 36 x 59 cm
During the reign of Louis XV goldsmiths invented new forms for such objects as elaborate centrepieces, liturgical items, coffee and chocolate accessories, powder boxes, and mirrors with massive frames. Above all there were the epergnes, or elaborate centrepieces, in which ingenuity triumphed by transforming each piece into miniature architecture, curving and flowing, full of motifs drawn from nature. Such pieces made the fortune of Fran�ois-Thomas Germain, who produced a notorious service of over one thousand pieces.