Ercuis

Details

Unlike numerous houses that have taken on their founder's name, ERCUIS bears the name of a small village of the Oise. In 1867, the young curate of the Ercuis, Adrien Celeste Pillon, undertook to rehabilitate the village, morally and economically. He created an artistic goldsmthing trade, offering silverware with relief enamel decorations, silver- and gold-plated via electrolysis process. 

To finance his extensive investments, he launched a newspaper which became a precious medium in which he could advertise his works, but this was disapproved by the religious authorities and he was soon dismissed from his duties. 

Dinnerware quickly made the business flourish: silver- or gold-plated tea and coffee sets, pantographed and enameled, as well as sterling and silver-plated flatware. Shops were soon opened in Paris, in other French cities and abroad. 

Alongside manufacturing process research, creation must permanently innovate. The Maes family, the new managers of the Orfevrerie d'Ercuis in the late 19th century, decided to turn to industrial manufacturing and enhanced marketing 

The Orfevrerie d'Ercuis increased its production capacities, took part in the big 1889 and 1900 World Fairs, and acquired rich customers by becoming one of the leading hotel suppliers. At the same time, flatware, a traditional wedding present for its well-to-do customer base, was not neglected and remained a creative priority. 

After World War II, the wish to privilege ancient values fought with the desire for renewal. In the face of general growth and a favorable environment, it became urgent to modernize the plant and turn towards more contemporary creations. Alongside great goldsmith classics, creations inspired by space research, such as the "Horizon" and "Galaxie" sets, made Ercuis a leader of the luxury business, and it became a member of the very selective Comite Colbert. 

ERCUIS today, perpetuates tradition through the works of craftsmen and creators who build modernity on the strong basis of experience, with a common demand for quality, fine detailing and passion.