Jacques Caffieri was a French metalworker and sculptor who was active in the 18th century. He was born in Paris in 1678 and was the son of a metalworker, Pierre Caffieri. Jacques was trained in his father's workshop and went on to become one of the most prominent metalworkers of his time.
Working primarily in bronze, Caffieri was known for his skilful and detailed craftsmanship. He created a wide range of decorative objects, such as candelabra, vases, clock cases, and fireplaces. He also created sculptures, many of which were allegorical or mythological in nature.
Caffieri was appointed as the official bronze-worker to King Louis XV of France in 1730. He was appointed "sculpteur ordinaire du roi" (sculptor to the king) in 1745. He worked for the king and his court, as well as for private patrons. Many of his works are still on display in French palaces and
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museums, such as the Louvre and Versailles.
He was also a teacher, and many of his students went on to become successful metalworkers and sculptors in their own right. He was a member of the Académie Royale de Peinture et de Sculpture and he was awarded the title of "Premier Sculpteur du Roi" (First Sculptor to the King) in 1775.
Jacques Caffieri died in Paris in 1755, he left a legacy of beautiful and elegant works, which are considered some of the finest examples of French decorative arts from the 18th century.
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