Direct from Paris, A Stunning Louis XVI, 4pc. Sterling Silver Tea / Coffee Set by France's Premier Silversmiths "Jacques and Pierre Cardeilhac (Christofle)" Silversmiths to the Aristocracy of Europe, with Accompanying "Boulenger" 950 Sterling Silver Serving Tray and 5 Anti-tarnish Storage Wraps, Circa 1890s. The French silversmith Christofle, formerly known as Cardeilhac, stands as a prominent figure in the history of silver craftsmanship. With a legacy that spans over two centuries, the house of Christofle has been synonymous with excellence in silverware, catering to the needs of French royalty, the elite, and connoisseurs of fine craftsmanship worldwide.
Adolphe Boulenger's journey into silversmithing commenced as an apprentice under the tutelage of his father, a respected goldsmith. This early exposure honed his skills and fueled his passion for creating exquisite silver pieces. In 1858, Adolphe Boulenger established his own workshop in the heart of Paris, marking the genesis of a legacy that would endure for generations. Boulenger's commitment to excellence extended beyond awards; it manifested in prestigious commissions from royalty, aristocracy, and discerning patrons. The firm crafted exquisite tableware, ceremonial objects, and decorative pieces for European courts and prominent figures, solidifying its status as a purveyor of luxury. Notably, Boulenger's creations adorned the dining tables of Emperor Napoleon III and Empress Eugénie, underscoring the firm's prestigious clientele. The discerning taste of these patrons served as a testament to the firm's ability to blend opulence with artistic refinement.
The history of Christofle (Cardeilhac) traces its roots to the early 19th century. In 1830, Charles Christofle, a jeweler from Paris, joined forces with Antoine Cardeilhac, a talented silversmith, to form a partnership that would later become one of the most celebrated names in silverware. Initially named Cardeilhac, the company quickly gained recognition for its exceptional craftsmanship and commitment to quality. One of the factors that contributed significantly to the success of Cardeilhac was its early association with French royalty.
In 1842, the company received the prestigious title of "Fournisseur de l'Empereur" (Supplier to the Emperor) under Napoleon III. This royal patronage not only elevated Cardeilhac's reputation but also provided access to a wealthy and influential clientele. Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, Cardeilhac (Christofle) enjoyed the patronage of royalty and nobility from around the world. From the courts of Europe to the palaces of Asia, Cardeilhac's sterling silver creations adorned the tables of kings, queens, and emperors. This prestigious clientele not only served as a testament to Cardeilhac's unrivaled quality but also elevated the brand to a symbol of aristocratic taste and refinement.
At the heart of Cardeilhac's success lay an unwavering commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Employing skilled artisans and leveraging the latest advancements in silversmithing techniques, Cardeilhac (Christofle) set new standards for excellence in the industry. Each piece bearing the Cardeilhac hallmark was a testament to meticulous attention to detail and uncompromising standards of quality. From the intricately engraved patterns to the flawless finishes, every aspect of production was executed with precision and care. This dedication to craftsmanship ensured that Cardeilhac pieces were not merely objects of utility but works of art worthy of admiration and reverence.
Cardeilhac's pursuit of excellence did not go unnoticed, earning the company numerous awards and accolades throughout its illustrious history. From prestigious exhibitions to international fairs, Cardeilhac consistently garnered praise for its exceptional creations. One of the most notable accolades came in 1855 when Cardeilhac (Christofle) received the Gold Medal at the Exposition Universelle in Paris, cementing its reputation as a preeminent silversmithing house. Subsequent awards followed, further solidifying Cardeilhac's status as a paragon of craftsmanship and innovation in the world of luxury silverware. In 1862, Charles Christofle assumed sole ownership of the company and subsequently changed its name to "Christofle."
Among Cardeilhac's most iconic creations are its sterling silver tea sets, like this amazing 4-piece set, revered for their timeless elegance and exquisite craftsmanship. Crafted from the finest silver and adorned with intricate detailing, these tea sets epitomize the artistry and luxury for which Cardeilhac is celebrated. Each component of a Cardeilhac tea set – from the teapot and sugar bowl to the creamer and tray – is a masterpiece in its own right, showcasing the silversmith's skill and mastery of the craft. Whether adorned with delicate filigree or embossed with ornate motifs, these tea sets exude an air of sophistication and refinement that is unmatched.
This amazing 4-piece art deco tea set is an exemplary testimony to the excellence of the Cardeilhac (Christofle) firm. The accompanying sterling silver serving tray by Adolphe Boulenger is equally as magnificent. Each of the pieces in the set has been professionally restored to near new condition. The teapot, coffee pot, sugar bowl and cream pitcher each bear the sterling silver signature hallmark of Master French Silversmith Christofle (Cardeilhac) in addition to the French Government's "Head of the Minerva - 1" hallmark, certifying a minimum of 950 sterling silver. The large matching serving tray also bears the French Government’s Head of the Minerva 1 as well and the Boulenger sterling silver manufacturer's hallmark.
The magnificent coffee pot is approximately 22.00 cm. in height to the top of the lid, roughly 18.50 cm. in length from the tip of the spout to the end of the handle and weighs 610 Grams. It is stamped on the underside with the Cardeilhac Signature sterling silver hallmarks and "Cardeilhac France" as well as the French Government’s Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark certifying a minimum of 950 sterling silver. It comes with its own anti-tarnish storage wrap for easy storage.
The magnificent sugar bowl with gold plated (Vermeil) interior stands roughly 13.50 cm. high to the top of the lid, measures approximately 12.00 cm. in length to the tips of the handles and weights 331 grams. It is stamped with the Cardeilhac signature sterling silver hallmark and "Cardeilhac France" as well as the French Government’s Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark certifying a minimum of 950 sterling silver. It comes with its own anti-tarnish storage wrap for easy storage.
The elegant tea pot is approximately 17.00 cm. in height to the top of the lid, roughly 19.50 cm. in length from the tip of the spout to the end of the handle and weighs 601 grams. It is stamped with the Cardeilhac signature sterling silver hallmark and "Cardeilhac France" as well as the French Government’s Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark certifying a minimum of 950 sterling silver. It comes with its own anti-tarnish storage wrap for easy storage.
The elegant tea pot is approximately 17.00 cm. in height to the top of the lid, roughly 19.50 cm. in length from the tip of the spout to the end of the handle and weighs 601 grams. It is stamped with the Cardeilhac signature sterling silver hallmark and "Cardeilhac France" as well as the French Government’s Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark certifying a minimum of 950 sterling silver. It comes with its own anti-tarnish storage wrap for easy storage.
The dainty cream pitcher stands approximately 11.50 cm. high to the top of the spout, measures 11.00 cm. in length from the tip of the handle to the tip of the spout and weights 187 grams. It is stamped with the Cardeilhac Signature sterling silver hallmark and "Cardeilhac France" as well as the French Government’s Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark certifying a minimum of 950 sterling silver. It comes with its own anti-tarnish storage wrap for easy storage.
The magnificent sterling silver serving tray is 55.50 cm. in length to the tips of the handles, 34.00 cm. wide at its widest point and weights an astounding 2,234 grams. It is also stamped with the French Government’s Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark certifying a minimum of 950 sterling silver along with the Boulenger manufacturer's sterling silver hallmark. It comes with its own anti-tarnish wrap for easy storage.
