Collection Wolfers & Petrucci: Hidden Treasures

Philippe Wolfers
Coffee service Janine (Sb 4487), 1926
Silver, wood
Dimensions: height coffeepot 14,5 cm, length 22,8 cm (from spout to handle)
Marks: each piece marked on the bottom of the base with the Wolfers Frères Maker’s mark,
serial number (Sb 4487–4489–4490) and alloy mark for 800/1000
Philippe Wolfers named the “Janine” service after one of his granddaughters,
born in 1924. It is considered by many as one of his most interesting and beautiful
art deco creations. Although the design is very austere, the use of a pearl motif
between the feet and at the base of the wooden nob on the lid makes the coffeepot
look elegant. This classical touch is typical of the art deco style of Philippe
Wolfers.
Although the “Janine” service remained in production until WWII, it is
fairly rare. The original sets came with a tray in a lozenge form and had a coffeeand
teapot of the same height. This might have been the reason why it was a
service that apparently did not sell very well. In the 1930’s catalogue of the firm,
the tray was changed to a normal, larger and rectangular format and there was a
possibility to buy a larger coffeepot. This did not improve the sale of the pattern
which was discontinued after WWII. It has become one of the most iconic and
sought after models by Wolfers, featuring frequently in exhibition catalogues on
art deco design.
144