Victorian Silverplate Tureen

Soup. Whether warm or cold, whether sweet and fruity or hearty and savory, whether a clear bouillon or a thick bisque, whether served as a first course or as a main dish, we have been eating soups for millennia.

As is the case with much of Western food culture, the French defined and refined how soup was to be prepared and served and beginning in the late 17th century, soup was presented and served from its own specific piece of tableware called a tureen. What began as a simple, covered communal serving bowl, was elevated during the reign of Louis XIV into one of the most richly ornamented centerpieces of the dining table.

In fact it was at this time period that the old custom of dressing the dinner table with every dish at once, was replaced with the new practice of separate courses at meal time - each course entering from the kitchen with an air of ceremony. Soup remained the first course of most meals, from the king's table to the peasant's, and the impressive, decorative soup tureen provided the opening ceremony to set the tone for the entire meal.

From the silver markets of England, we are proud to offer this magnificent Victorian Silverplate Soup Tureen. Produced in the early 20th century by Barker Brothers of Birmingham, we adore the sleek oval shape and elevated stature of this gorgeous serving piece. The additional height served to increase the surface area which could be elegantly hand-chased with a lively floral pattern.

In the center, a generously-sized decorative medallion waits patiently for your family monogram floating just below a masterfully chased and engraved lid showcasing a complimentary botanical motif. Articulated handles on both the lid and sides are adorned with a detailed reed and branch design, while a classic beaded border around the upper finial and lid perimeter balances the symmetry of the silhouette with the joyful craftsmanship of the engraving.

Certain to take pride of place on your table or display handsomely on your buffet, this classic and lasting piece of shining silver will make quite an introduction to your first course or elegantly serve a hearty main course of soup, stew or tagine.

Strictly one-of-a-kind and subject to prior sale. In very good antique condition. 10.5H" x 9" x 13.5" handle to handle.