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The ‘bollo Suizo’

A lifelong sweet from Madrid

The ‘bollo Suizo’ is a classic pastry from Madrid that dates back to the 19th century. Despite its name, it is not of Swiss origin, but is a Spanish creation, specifically from Madrid.

It owes its name to the Confitería Suiza, a very popular establishment in the Spanish capital at the time. Opened in 1845, this confectionery was located at number 6 Puerta del Sol and became famous for the production of this pastry.

Over time, the Suizo became one of the most popular products in Madrid's pastry shops, becoming part of the traditional breakfast or afternoon snack of many families.

Behind the Confitería Suiza was a family of Swiss origin, the Fundérichs, who decided to settle in Madrid and open their own confectionery business. The surname Fundérich has remained associated with the prestige of the establishment, which not only offered confectionery, but also chocolates and sweets with European influences, something that was highly appreciated by Madrid's high society at the time.

The confectionery was an important social meeting point in Madrid. During the second half of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century, it was frequented by intellectuals, politicians and people from high society who went there not only to enjoy its sweets, but also to participate in gatherings and conversations in an elegant atmosphere. Gustavo Adolfo Bécquer, who attended this café until the end of his life, used to sit at one of the tables next to the doors of the confectionery. The legacy of the Confitería Suiza lasted for decades, and although the original establishment closed its doors in the mid-20th century, it left an indelible mark on Madrid's confectionery tradition. 

Drawing with several Castilian men in front of the Cafe Suizo in Madrid, 1873

Café Suizo, 1871

Gathering at the Café Suizo

Façade of the Café Suizo located on the corner of Calle de Alcalá and Calle de Sevilla, Madrid, 1919. Source: Library of the Diputación Provincial de Zaragoza

Café Suizo days before its disappearance

Las primeras cuberterías de acero inoxidable

The first stainless steel cutlery

A material that is just over 100 years old

The origin of the first stainless steel cutlery dates back to the beginning of the 20th century. Before their invention, tableware was usually made of metals such as silver, iron or ordinary steel, which were prone to corrosion and required special care to avoid stains and rust.It was in 1913 that the British metallurgist Harry Brearley came up with an alloy of chromium and carbon steel that did not tarnish or rust and remained the same. A century earlier, experiments had already been carried out with different alloys, with the aim of achieving a rust-resistant material.The first brand to market stainless steel cutlery was Firth-Vickers, a British company based in Sheffield, England. In fact, Brearley worked in one of the company's subsidiaries. Following his discovery, Firth-Vickers was a pioneer in recognising the potential of stainless steel for the production of cookware and cutlery, due to its corrosion resistance and low maintenance. They began to develop and market cutlery made from this material in the 1910s and 1920s. Sheffield continued to establish itself as a centre for the production of stainless steel cutlery, exporting pieces all over the world and laying the foundations for its widespread use in everyday life. Stainless steel revolutionised the cookware and cutlery industry, offering durability, easy cleaning and a shiny finish. The first cutlery made from this material appeared soon after, quickly gaining popularity due to its hygienic properties and low maintenance. Until the beginning of the 20th century, all metal cutlery rusted. It was a very heavy task for the people who had to keep them clean and shiny, to the point of warning them at the time of their hiring, even stating ‘doing no cutlery’ on their letter of introduction. Although stainless steel became the preferred choice for everyday use due to its durability, low maintenance and affordable price, silver cutlery and other silver-plated alloys remained symbols of luxury, sophistication and tradition.Silver cutlery, whether solid silver or silver plated metal, is associated with formal events, celebrations and special occasions. Their distinctive lustre, weight and elegant aesthetics have maintained their popularity in high-end settings, such as luxury hotels, top restaurants and in family collections that are passed down from generation to generation.Several brands have continued to be benchmarks in the production and marketing of silver cutlery, standing out for their quality, history and prestige. Today, in Europe, the French goldsmith Christofle, founded in 1830, whose silver and silver-plated cutlery is still a symbol of sophistication on tables all over the world; and Puiforcat, founded in 1820 by Emile Puiforcat, a house that is synonymous with elegance and excellence in goldsmithing.

La copa de champagne Pompadour

The Pompadour champagne glass

A TOAST REMINISCENT OF THE PAST

The Pompadour champagne glass has an origin full of mythology and elegance. According to popular legend, its low, round shape was moulded from the bust of Madame de Pompadour, mistress of King Louis XV of France, in the 18th century. Although this story is more myth than reality, it helps to perpetuate the seductive and sophisticated image that has always accompanied this glass. Madame de Pompadour was known for her love for champagne, and her association with this bubbly drink helped to cement the relationship between the aristocracy and champagne.The true story behind the creation of the Pompadour glass is less romantic but still interesting. This glass was originally designed to serve champagne at the French court during the 17th century, long before modern winemaking techniques made champagne bubbles as we know them today popular. At that time, champagne was a quiet drink, without effervescence, and the wide, shallow shape of the glass allowed the aromas of the drink to be better appreciated.Throughout the 19th century, as the production of champagne with bubbles was perfected, the Pompadour glass became a symbol of elegance and luxury, present at European high society parties and celebrations. However, the large surface area of the glass was not ideal for preserving the bubbles, which eventually led to the creation of the flute glass, which helps to maintain the effervescence for longer. Even so, the Pompadour retained its place in champagne history, associated with style and refinement.Today, the Pompadour glass remains a champagne drinking choice for those seeking to recall the elegance of the past. Its classic aesthetic evokes images of Belle Époque parties, gilded Hollywood and elegant celebrations over the years. While not the most practical glass for today's champagne, it remains a timeless symbol of luxury and style.

Historia de la porcelana

The history of porcelain

From Chinese dynasties to European courts

Porcelain is a ceramic material that originated in China during the Tang dynasty (618-907 AD), and reached its peak of perfection during the Song dynasty (960-1279 AD). Its discovery was due to the mixture of kaolin, a type of white clay, and feldspar, which when fired at high temperatures produced a hard, translucent material of great beauty. It was highly valued not only in China, but became a symbol of luxury and power in other civilisations, such as Europe.The impact of porcelain on various cultures was remarkable. In Asia, Chinese porcelain was exported along the Silk Road and was highly prized in places such as Persia and the Ottoman Empire. In Europe, porcelain arrived in the 16th century thanks to Portuguese traders and soon became a status symbol. Porcelain in EuropeAt the French court in the 18th century, King Louis XIV collected porcelain pieces, and the famous Sèvres porcelain factory was founded under his patronage. Another renowned European porcelain is Limoges, which to this day is synonymous with high quality porcelain. Such was the fascination with this material that in 1709, in Germany, the alchemist Johann Friedrich Böttger discovered the method of making European porcelain in Meissen. Porcelain from Sèvres, Limoges and Meissen not only defined the taste of the royal courts, but also helped to position Europe as a global competitor in porcelain manufacture. The "white gold"Because of its high commercial value, porcelain in China came to be known as "white gold". In Europe, Chinese porcelain was so highly prized that some pieces cost more than gold itself. In Japan, Arita porcelain was particularly famous, and was of great importance in the tea ceremony, where handcrafted pieces with a delicate balance between form and function were valued.Porcelain has influenced not only culture and commerce, but also art and technology. The process of making porcelain was a milestone in the development of ceramic science, and its properties - strength, lightness, beauty - are still admired today. Moreover, the exchange of porcelain between continents not only contributed to trade, but also fostered dialogue between civilisations, making it a cultural object with a global impact. We share the value and authenticity of unique pieces, the importance and care of craftsmanship. Tradition, quality and elegance in the art of setting the table.