PUIFORCAT

At 0700 on 12th October 2005, the Silver Society of Belgium left for Paris, to visit the workshop of the world-famous silverware designers Puiforcat, which is now part of the Hermès group.

After a 3-hour drive by coach, tea and coffee at Puiforcat were welcome. 19 members and friends took part. This beautiful art deco service was on the table to greet them. Jean-Michel Guillot, designer, showed some of the original production sketches. To begin with, the firm copied existing classical designs. But in the 20s and 30s, Jean Puiforcat produced innovative art deco pieces. Here in the workshop, the flat metal takes a new shape. Some of the basic forms which are used. After shaping, the metal is heated to give it flexibility. Eric Popinneau, head of the workshop, explains the production process. Many of the more intricate pieces are beaten into shape by hand. Tools of the trade. Designs for knife handles. Even the old filing cabinets are works of art. Eric Popinneau shows some of the modern styles which the firm is now producing. In the Puiforcat showroom, the visit ends with champagne from a silver goblet.