Direct from Paris, a magnificent 5-piece French antique Empire style silver-plate tea set by France’s premier silversmith “Christofle” – Silversmith to the King. Each piece in this stunning set has been professionally refinished to like new condition and each comes with its own anti-tarnish storage wrap and the original Christofle cardboard storage box, although the boxes are a bit worn. Since its inception in the early 19th century, Christofle has remained synonymous with luxury, elegance, and exceptional craftsmanship in the realm of French silversmithing. Founded by Charles Christofle in 1830, the company quickly gained renown for its exquisite silverware, innovative techniques, and prestigious clientele.
At the heart of Christofle's enduring legacy lies its unwavering commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Each piece produced by Christofle embodies meticulous attention to detail, unparalleled precision, and superior artistry. The silversmiths at Christofle employ traditional techniques passed down through generations, combined with cutting-edge technology, to create objects of timeless beauty and impeccable quality. Whether crafting intricate silver flatware, ornate serving pieces, or elegant tea sets, Christofle consistently upholds the highest standards of excellence, earning the admiration of connoisseurs worldwide.
Throughout its illustrious history, Christofle has garnered numerous accolades and distinctions, reaffirming its status as a trailblazer in the world of silversmithing. The company's commitment to innovation and design excellence has been recognized through prestigious awards such as the Medaille d'Or (Gold Medal) at the Exposition Universelle in Paris, cementing Christofle's reputation as a leader in the luxury silverware industry. Additionally, Christofle's creations have been showcased in esteemed exhibitions and museums around the globe, further solidifying its position as an icon of French craftsmanship and artistry.
From its inception, Christofle has enjoyed patronage from royalty and aristocracy, who coveted the brand's exquisite creations for their palaces and estates. The company's illustrious clientele includes European monarchs, nobles, and heads of state, who sought out Christofle's silverware for its unrivaled beauty, craftsmanship, and prestige. Notably, Christofle was appointed the official purveyor of silverware to the court of Napoleon I, solidifying its status as the epitome of luxury and refinement in 19th-century France. This royal patronage not only elevated Christofle's prestige but also propelled its expansion into international markets, as discerning collectors across the globe clamored to acquire pieces from the esteemed maison.
One of Christofle's most groundbreaking innovations was the development of the silver-plating technique, which revolutionized the production of silverware and made luxury dining more accessible to a broader audience. Charles Christofle, in collaboration with renowned inventor Henri-Victor Regnault, perfected the electroplating process in the mid-19th century, allowing for the mass production of silver-plated tableware at a fraction of the cost of solid silver. This revolutionary technique not only democratized access to luxury dining accouterments but also enabled Christofle to expand its reach and influence beyond the confines of the aristocracy, catering to a burgeoning middle class eager to embrace the trappings of refined living.
Among Christofle's most iconic creations are its exquisite empire style tea sets, like this amazing 5-piece set, which epitomize the opulence and grandeur of the Napoleonic era. Inspired by the neoclassical aesthetics of the Empire period, these tea sets feature elegant lines, intricate motifs, and rich decorative elements that evoke the splendor of a bygone era. Crafted from the finest materials and finished to perfection, Christofle's empire style tea sets exude sophistication and refinement, making them prized possessions of collectors and aficionados alike. Whether adorning the tables of royal palaces or gracing the homes of discerning patrons, Christofle’s rare Empire tea sets serve as enduring symbols of luxury and taste, preserving the legacy of Christofle for generations to come.
Christofle stands as a paragon of excellence in the realm of French silversmithing, revered for its quality craftsmanship, innovative spirit, and timeless elegance. From its prestigious royal patronage to its groundbreaking silver-plating technique and iconic empire style tea sets, Christofle has left an indelible mark on the world of luxury dining and decorative arts. With each meticulously crafted piece, Christofle continues to uphold its legacy of excellence, enchanting collectors and enthusiasts with its timeless allure and unparalleled beauty.
This magnificent 5-piece Empire style tea set is a stunning example of the quality and craftsmanship for which the firm is internationally known. Each piece has been professionally refinished to like new condition, and each comes with its own anti-tarnish storage wrap for easy storage in addition to the original Christofle cardboard storage containers – although the storage boxes are a bit worn. The stunning teapot stands approximately 28.00cm. high to the top of the lid, is roughly 23.00cm. across from the tip off the spout to the outside of the handle, weights 1,136 grams and is stamped “Christofle France” on the underside. The coffee pot stands roughly 30.00cm. high, is approximately 21.50cm. across from the tip of the spout to the outside of the handle, weights 1,026 grams and is also stamped “Christofle France” on the underside. The elegant sugar bowl is approximately 21,00cm. high to the top of the lid, 11.00cm. across at its widest point, weights 614 grams and is also stamped “Christofle France” on the underside. The dainty cream pitcher is roughly 14.50cm. high to the top of the handle, 11.50cm. across from the tip of the spout to the outside of the handle, weights 267 grams and is also stamped “Christofle France” on the underside. The massive serving tray measure 66.00cm. in length, 42.00cm. wide at its widest point, weights 2,700+ grams and is also stamped “Christofle France” on the underside. You can’t go wrong buying quality.
