Silver cruet set, J.M. van Kempen & Zn, 1858-1924

Beautiful antique silver cruet set (oil and vinegar set) from the renowned Dutch silversmith J.M. van Kempen en Zn from Voorschoten.

 J.M. van Kempen & Zn is one of the most important names in Dutch silver history.

The history of this iconic silver factory is characterized by innovation, royal allure, and pure craftsmanship.

 The company originated in Utrecht (1789). In 1841, the company was already granted the honor of bearing the Royal Arms. When grandson Johannes Mattheüs van Kempen III opened the large silver factory in Voorschoten in 1858, the king officially granted it the predicate "Royal." J.M. van Kempen was an absolute pioneer. In 1851, he was the first in the Netherlands to introduce the steam engine to the silver industry. This allowed the factory to meet the growing demand for high-quality table silver and luxury canteens with unprecedented precision.

This stylish table piece exudes nineteenth-century craftsmanship and features an elegantly crafted silver frame with a central handle and a stable round base with a wooden core.

The frame holds finely cut glass bottles and shakers. Please note: the set is not entirely complete; one glass bottle is currently missing, and one of the present glass bottles has a small chip/piece missing. Nevertheless, it remains a magnificent collector's item or a beautiful decorative piece for a chic dining table.

The set served to present the most important basic seasonings centrally on the dining table. Guests could then season their dishes at the table themselves.

A classic cruet set like this model usually contained bottles for oil and vinegar (liquids) and shakers or pots for salt, pepper, and sometimes mustard (solids).

During the Victorian era and the late 19th century, dining was a social ritual full of etiquette. A silver cruet set from a top brand like Van Kempen showed guests that the host possessed wealth and good taste.

Specifications:

The cruet set is hallmarked with the master's mark VK half moon and the Minerva head.