The Shanghai boutique features ceramics from Hermes, silverware from Puiforcat and crystal pieces from St. Louis. Photo provided to Shanghai Star

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The family silver is often an indication of class and pedigree in certain Western countries, and one family in France has made it their business to create cutlery, tea and coffee pots that are potential heirlooms. Zhang Kun admires the shine.

The Puiforcat family in France has been handcrafting articles in silver for almost 200 years. Founded in Paris in 1820 by Emile Puiforcat and his two cousins, the distinguished cutler is now a member of the Hermes group. It is now available in China, in a recently opened boutique at Shanghai's Plaza 66.

The company has brought exquisite selections including knives and forks, coffee pots and tea pots, beakers for Champagne and Cognac, and even chopsticks.

Located in this mall on West Nanjing Road, the shop features "ceramics from Hermes, silverware from Puiforcat and crystal pieces from St. Louis," according to Amber Xia, manager of the store.

Puiforcat is one of the most celebrated silverware brands in the world.

Helene Dubrule, director of Hermes Maison, declines to reveal details of its prestigious clientele, but points out that China's national leaders on their diplomatic visits to France would be using intricately handcrafted utensils from the brand's Elysee collection when dining with the French president.

Puiforcat has been the silverware of choice at the Elysee Palace in Paris since the 1940s.