Direct from Paris, a stunning 2-piece, original antique French 950 sterling silver, Louis XVI, serving platter set by France’s premier silversmith “Christofle – Silversmith to the King”, circa 1890s. The set contains 1 round serving platter and 1 oval serving platter. Each piece has been professionally restored to near new condition and each comes with its own anti-tarnish storage wrap for easy storage. Christofle, a name synonymous with luxury and artistry in the world of silver-smithing, has an illustrious history that stretches back to its founding in 1830 by Charles Christofle in Paris, France. Christofle began its journey in the early 19th century when Charles Christofle took over his family's jewelry workshop.
The hallmark of Christofle has always been its commitment to excellence in craftsmanship. Each piece of Christofle silverware is the result of a meticulous process that involves numerous artisans. The company employs traditional silversmith techniques such as casting, engraving, and polishing, combined with modern innovations to maintain the highest standards of quality. The artisans at Christofle are renowned for their skills in sculpting intricate designs and their attention to detail, which ensure that each piece is not only functional but also a work of art.
Christofle's commitment to craftsmanship and innovation has been recognized globally through numerous awards and accolades. At the 1867 Exposition Universelle in Paris, Christofle was awarded for its superior designs and technological prowess. This recognition placed Christofle on a global platform, attracting clients from various royal houses and affluent individuals around the world.
Royal patronage has been a significant aspect of Christofle's history. The firm has served various royal families, including those of Napoleon III, Emperor of France, and foreign dignitaries such as the Sultan of the Ottoman Empire. This royal patronage not only boosted Christofle's image but also allowed the firm to expand its influence and prestige globally. The continued association with royalty and the aristocracy throughout the years has reinforced Christofle's position as a purveyor of luxury and exclusivity.
Among the most remarkable of Christofle's creations are its 950 sterling silver serving platters, like this amazing 2-piece set. These platters are celebrated for their superior purity—sterling silver typically contains 92.5% silver, but Christofle’s 950 mark denotes a 95% silver content, enhancing both the aesthetic and monetary value of the pieces. The design of these platters often incorporates elaborate motifs and expert finishing, making them not only serving dishes but also centerpiece attractions at formal gatherings.
Christofle's journey through the centuries as a beacon of exceptional quality, artistry, and luxury in the world of silver-smithing is a testament to its enduring legacy. From the pioneering adoption of electroplating technology to the crafting of exquisite 950 sterling silver platters, Christofle continues to embody the pinnacle of French elegance and craftsmanship. The firm’s ability to blend tradition with innovation ensures that it remains at the forefront of the silverware industry, continually captivating and delighting collectors and connoisseurs around the world. Through its storied history, marked by royal endorsements and international acclaim, Christofle remains a symbol of luxury and refinement in the art of silver-smithing.
This stunning 2-piece serving platter set is a testament to the quality and craftsmanship for which the firm is internationally known. The round serving platter has a diameter of 33.00 cm. and weights 898 grams. It is also stamped with the French Government's Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark certifying a minimum of 950 sterling silver and with the Christofle manufacturer's sterling silver hallmark. It also comes with its own anti-tarnish storage wrap for easy storage.
The oval serving platter measures approximately 49.50 cm. in length, 31.50 cm. across at its widest point and weights 1,202 grams. It is also stamped with the French Government's Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark certifying a minimum of 950 sterling silver and with the Christofle manufacturer's sterling silver hallmark. It also comes with its own anti-tarnish storage wrap for easy storage.
