The Metropolitan Museum of Art holds in its collection a number of items attributed to famed 18th-century French metalworker François Thomas Germain.

The son of another noted metalworking master, Germain gained fame for his production of complete sets of dining ware, including coffee pots.

From 1748 to 1765 Germain's work made him the most fashionable silversmith in Paris, at one point operating a workshop that employed over one hundred workers.

The metalwork of the object reflects the Rococo school of art; the raised surface of the silver spirals up the body of the pot, creating the impression of movement.

Floral patterns depicting a coffee plant are crafted around the base of the pot's handle, while leaves decorate its feet and legs.