Direct from Paris, a Magnificent 6pc. Louis XV Silver Plate Tea Set by France's Premier Silversmith "Christofle" Silversmith to the Kings and Queens of Europe for Decades, All Pieces have been Meticulously Restored to "Near New" Condition, You Can Go Wrong Buying Quality, Circa Early 1900s. The Legacy of Christofle: Elevating Elegance through Silver Plating - The world of luxury and refinement has been deeply intertwined with the art of silver-smithing for centuries, and one name that stands out prominently in this realm is Christofle. Renowned for its exquisite silver plating and exceptional craftsmanship, Christofle has left an indelible mark on the world of decorative arts and design.
The stunning coffee pot measures roughly 20.50 cm. high to the top of the lid, 19.00 cm. across from the outer edge of the handle to the tip of the spout and weights 1,090 grams. It is stamped “Christofle Hotel France” on the underside and comes with its own anti-tarnish storage wrap for easy storage. The elegant sugar bowl measures approximately 11.50 cm. high to the top of the lid, 14.00 cm. wide to the tips of the handles and weights 504 grams. It is stamped “Christofle Hotel France” on the underside and comes with its own anti-tarnish storage wrap for easy storage. The magnificent teapot measures roughly 19.00 cm. high to the top of the lid, 20.50 cm. across from the outer edge of the handle to the tip of the spout and weights 1,250 grams. It is stamped “Christofle Hotel France” on the underside and comes with its own anti-tarnish storage wrap for easy storage. The stunning milk pitcher measures roughly 11.00 cm. high, 14.00 cm. across from the outer edge of the handle to the tip of the spout and weights 335 grams. It is stamped “Christofle Hotel France” on the underside and comes with its own anti-tarnish storage wrap for easy storage. The cream pitcher measures roughly 8.00 cm. high to the top of the handle, 11.00 cm. across from the outer edge of the handle to the tip of the spout and weights 235 grams. It is stamped "Christofle Hotel France" on the underside and comes with its own anti-tarnish storage wrap for easy storage. The massive serving tray measures approximately 64.00 cm. in length to the tips of the handles, roughly 42.00 cm. across and wieghts over 2,830 grams. It is stamed "Christofle France - Coll. Gallia" plus the Christofle manufacturer's hallmark on the underside and comes with its own anti-tarnish storage wrap for easy storage.
The story of Christofle begins in the early 19th century, when Charles Christofle, an innovative entrepreneur, founded the company in France. The industrial revolution was in full swing, leading to technological advancements and changing social dynamics. Christofle seized this opportune moment to establish a silver-smithing brand that would cater to the evolving tastes and preferences of the burgeoning elite class. What truly set Christofle apart was its revolutionary silver plating technique. Prior to Christofle's innovation, silverware was predominantly made using solid silver, which was expensive and required meticulous maintenance due to its susceptibility to tarnishing. Christofle introduced a new concept: electroplating. This technique involved depositing a thin layer of silver onto a base metal, usually copper or brass, through an electrochemical process. The result was a piece that had the lustrous appearance of silver but was more durable and easier to care for. This amazing tea set is a stunning example of the mastery of the firm.
While the silver plating technique was groundbreaking, it was Christofle's commitment to artistic design and craftsmanship that truly captured the hearts of connoisseurs. The brand collaborated with talented designers and artists of its time, including names like Man Ray, Jean Cocteau, and Gio Ponti, to create exceptional pieces that merged functionality with beauty. The Art Nouveau and Art Deco movements influenced many of their designs, resulting in intricate and elegant patterns that adorned everything from flatware to tea sets and decorative objects. Christofle's commitment to excellence extended beyond aesthetics. The company's skilled artisans employed meticulous handcrafting techniques to ensure the highest quality. Each piece is meticulously finished, polished, and inspected to meet the brand's exacting standards. This dedication to craftsmanship ensures that Christofle's silver-plated items are not mere commodities but works of art that should be cherished for generations.
Over the years, Christofle's influence has transcended time and trends. The brand's silver-plated creations have graced the tables of royalty, dignitaries, and discerning individuals around the world. From exquisite cutlery sets to magnificent tea sets, Christofle's pieces have become symbols of refinement and sophistication. They have been used in grand banquets, lavish weddings, and intimate gatherings, enhancing the ambiance and leaving an unforgettable impression. Christofle's legacy in the realm of silver plating stands as a testament to the marriage of innovation, artistry, and craftsmanship. The brand's revolutionary electroplating technique redefined the possibilities of silverware, making luxury accessible without compromising quality. Christofle's dedication to design ensured that its pieces were not only functional but also aesthetically captivating, becoming cornerstones of sophisticated living.
