BY JEAN FORMEY (FL. 1754-1791), MARKED, PARIS, 1767/1768, WITH THE CHARGE MARK OF JEAN-JACQUES PREVOST 1762-1768 AND THE DECHARGE MARK OF JULIEN ALATERRE 1768-1774

Following the completion of his apprenticeship, Jean Formey worked as compagnon at the Gobelins between 1741 and 1754. He became master in Paris on 17 July 1754, sponsored by Antoine-Lazare Clérin. His trade card advertises that: 'Formey Md Orfèvre Joyallier Bijoutier, Fabrique, Vend, Achete, & Troque toutes sortes de Joyalleries Bijouteries'. He was evidently both successful and respected, holding office in the Goldsmiths' Corporation and becoming Prime Warden in 1778.