François Cadoret, Orfèvre

Few craftsmen can claim more métier in their blood than fourth-generation gold-and-silversmith François Cadoret. In his busy atelier and boutique, the Orfèvrerie du Marais—where visitors are welcome—his tightly-knit team of artisans covers all stages in the art of working precious metals, from the initial cutting and basic shaping of the sheet metal done by the planeur to hammering, chasing, engraving and burnishing the finished works. That comprehensive mastery of the age-old craft, often using tools inherited from the 18th and 19th centuries, results in a dazzling array of hand-made objects, both off-the-shelf and custom-made. Your antique silver punchbowl has lost its punch? Restoration is also a Cadoret specialty, including the repair of pewter. Looking for tomorrow’s heirloom? No problem. Cadoret undertakes commissions of all sorts and sizes, from signet rings and christening cups to a silver tea service for an ambassador’s residence or a pair of candelabras in solid gold. In Cadoret’s 25-year career, the excellence of his work has earned him an impressive list of patrons, among them the French Senate and government ministries, the Musée du Louvre and the State of Brunei Darussalam.

172-174 rue de Charonne, 11th. 01.43.71.25.04. website

Originally published in the December 2009 issue of France Today