François-Thomas Germain

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François-Thomas Germain
File:Louis-Joseph Lenhendrick - Pair of Candlesticks - Walters 571696, 571697.jpg
Germain is thought to have introduced this popular model of candlestick in Paris in 1757-1758.
Born April 17, 1726
Paris, France
Died January 23, 1791 (aged 64)
Paris, France
Nationality French
Known for Silversmith
Parent(s) Thomas Germain (father; 1673-1748)
Anne-Denise Gauchelet (mother)

François-Thomas Germain (1726–1791) was a French silversmith who was often commissioned by European royalty and inherited the title of royal silversmith and sculptor to the King of France. In 1765, Germain broke guild regulations by working with financiers to receive some debts owed to him, as he was only allowed to enter into partnerships with his fellow smiths. For this he was forced to resign his position and declare bankruptcy.

Germain died out of the public eye in 1791, the last member of his distinguished family to serve as a royal smith. Many of his works are now held in museums and private collections.

Curiously enough, due to the French Revolution and other hazards of history, the biggest portion of his production now belongs to countries other than France—namely Portugal and Russia.

In popular culture

In the 2014 video game Assassin's Creed Unity, Germain is portrayed as a Templar Grand Master, and the main antagonist. Instead of dying in 1791, he is killed off by the game's protagonist in 1794. His historical counterpart's death is referenced in-game by Élise who believed Germain was deceased during a level set in 1793. Germain was chosen as a character because of his real-life talent and "unexplained demise."[1]

References

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External links

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