Coffeepot (Supplemental)

This tea and coffee service masterfully combines shimmering shells, plants, banding and beading to create a work resplendent with minute details. Jean-Valentin Morel, trained as a goldsmith, jeweler and lapidary, skillfully melded German and Italian Renaissance metalwork forms and motifs, catering to the 19th-century taste for nature, ornament and luxury. Morel's clients included King Louis-Philippe (reign 1830-48), who purchased the only other service identical to this one. A version of this set was later reproduced by Morel's former partner and shown at the International Exhibition of 1862 in London. Although it was 20 years old, critics hailed the prize-winning design as innovative and original. The radiant gold foliage set against the luminous silver shells reflects what was deemed as Morel's "passion for perfection which dominates his nature."