Direct from Paris, a magnificent 88pc. French antique sterling silver flatware set by France’s premier silversmith “Christofle (Cardeilhac)” – silversmith to the King – in their much sought after Germain Port Royal pattern. The legacy of French silversmithing is rich with tradition, innovation, and unparalleled craftsmanship. Among the most distinguished names in this revered craft is Christofle, a brand synonymous with luxury, quality, and a storied heritage. Initially established in 1830 by Charles Christofle, the company quickly became a symbol of French elegance and sophistication. A significant chapter in the Christofle story is its association with the House of Cardeilhac, known for its exquisite silverware.
Charles Christofle founded the Christofle brand in Paris in 1830. From the outset, Christofle was distinguished by its dedication to innovation and excellence. The House of Cardeilhac, on the other hand, was founded in 1804 by Antoine-Vital Cardeilhac. This firm quickly became renowned for its exceptional work in sterling silver and gilt silver, with designs often characterized by intricate details and elegant forms. In 1951, Christofle acquired Cardeilhac, merging two legacies of exceptional silversmithing into one powerful brand. The collaboration between Christofle and Cardeilhac brought together the innovative spirit of Christofle with the traditional, artisanal skills of Cardeilhac, resulting in a product line that exemplified the pinnacle of French silversmithing.
The hallmark of Christofle (Cardeilhac) lies in its commitment to the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship. The production of Christofle silverware involves meticulous attention to detail, with each piece undergoing rigorous processes to ensure perfection. This commitment to excellence is evident in every aspect of their work, from the selection of raw materials to the final finishing touches. The artisans at Christofle are highly skilled in the traditional methods of silversmithing, including forging, chasing, and engraving. These techniques require a high degree of precision and artistry, with each piece being carefully crafted by hand. The result is silverware that is not only functional but also a work of art, with each piece reflecting the skill and dedication of the artisan who created it.
One of the most notable examples of Christofle (Cardeilhac)’s craftsmanship is the Germain Port Royal flatware set. This sterling silver collection is a testament to the brand’s dedication to quality and attention to detail. The Germain Port Royal set is characterized by its elegant lines and timeless design, with each piece being meticulously crafted to ensure a perfect balance of form and function. The set includes a wide range of utensils, from dinner forks and knives to serving spoons and dessert cutlery, each piece reflecting the brand’s commitment to excellence. The Germain Port Royal flatware set is also notable for its durability and longevity. Unlike many mass-produced silverware sets, which can tarnish or degrade over time, Christofle (Cardeilhac) silverware is designed to last for generations. The sterling silver used in the Germain Port Royal set is of the highest quality, ensuring that each piece retains its luster and beauty for many years to come. This durability, combined with the timeless design, makes the Germain Port Royal set a cherished heirloom that can be passed down from one generation to the next.
The reputation of Christofle (Cardeilhac) as a purveyor of luxury silverware was further solidified by the royal patronage and commissions the brand received over the years. The company’s association with the royal courts of Europe is a testament to the exceptional quality and craftsmanship of their products. One of the earliest and most significant patrons of Christofle was Emperor Napoleon III, who commissioned the company to produce a wide range of silverware for his court. The grandeur and elegance of Christofle’s creations made them a natural choice for the opulent settings of the French court. The company’s silverware was used in state banquets, royal weddings, and other important ceremonies, further enhancing the brand’s prestige and reputation. In addition to the French court, Christofle (Cardeilhac) also received commissions from other royal houses across Europe. The company’s silverware was highly sought after by the Russian, Austrian, and British royal families, among others. These commissions often involved the creation of bespoke pieces, designed specifically to meet the tastes and preferences of the royal clients. The ability to cater to such discerning clientele is a testament to the versatility and skill of Christofle’s artisans. The royal patronage received by Christofle (Cardeilhac) also played a significant role in elevating the brand’s status in the eyes of the general public. The association with royalty served as an endorsement of the brand’s quality and craftsmanship, making Christofle silverware a symbol of luxury and refinement. This reputation has endured to this day, with Christofle (Cardeilhac) continuing to be regarded as one of the world’s leading silversmiths.
Over the course of its long history, Christofle (Cardeilhac) has received numerous awards and recognitions, further cementing its status as a leader in the field of silversmithing. The company’s innovative designs and exceptional craftsmanship have been recognized at international exhibitions and competitions, earning it a place among the most celebrated names in the industry. One of the earliest accolades received by Christofle was at the 1855 Exposition Universelle in Paris, where the company was awarded a gold medal for its silverware. This recognition was a significant achievement, as the Exposition Universelle was one of the most prestigious international exhibitions of the time, attracting participants and visitors from around the world. The gold medal served as a testament to the quality and innovation of Christofle’s products, helping to establish the brand as a leader in the industry.
Among the many remarkable creations of Christofle (Cardeilhac), the Germain Port Royal flatware sets stand out as a true masterpiece of design and craftsmanship. These sets are a perfect example of the brand’s ability to create silverware that is both beautiful and functional, with each piece being meticulously crafted to the highest standards of quality. The Germain Port Royal flatware sets are characterized by their elegant and timeless design, with clean lines and a refined aesthetic that make them suitable for a wide range of occasions. The design of the flatware is both classic and modern, with a simplicity that belies the intricate craftsmanship involved in its creation. The handles of the utensils are smooth and polished, with a slight taper that gives them a comfortable and balanced feel in the hand.
One of the most striking features of the Germain Port Royal flatware sets is the attention to detail in the design of each piece. The edges of the utensils are carefully beveled, giving them a subtle yet distinctive profile. The bowls of the spoons are perfectly shaped, with a deep curvature that allows for easy scooping and sipping. The tines of the forks are precisely aligned, ensuring that they are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Even the blades of the knives are meticulously crafted, with a sharp edge that is perfect for cutting through a wide range of foods. The craftsmanship involved in the creation of the Germain Port Royal flatware sets is truly exceptional. Each piece is made from the finest sterling silver, with a purity of 925 parts per thousand. The silver is carefully selected for its quality and durability, ensuring that each piece will retain its luster and beauty for many years to come. The flatware is also designed to be easy to care for, with a smooth and polished surface that resists tarnishing and is easy to clean.
The legacy of Christofle (Cardeilhac) is one of exceptional craftsmanship, innovation, and a commitment to quality that has made it one of the most respected names in the world of silversmithing. From its early days as a pioneer in silver-plating technology to its current status as a leader in the field of luxury silverware, Christofle has consistently demonstrated a dedication to excellence that is evident in every piece it creates. This amazing 88pc. flatware set in their popular Germain Port Royal is a perfect example of the firm’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship. The set is not only beautiful and functional but also a testament to the skill and artistry of the artisans at Christofle (Cardeilhac). With its elegant design, meticulous attention to detail, and exceptional durability, the Germain Port Royal flatware sets are a true masterpiece of silver craftsmanship. Each piece bears the French Government’s Head of the Minerva 1 hallmark, in addition to the Christofle (Cardeilhac) sterling silver manufacturer’s hallmark. The set includes the following (all weights and measures approximate):
12 Dinner Knives, 23.50 cm., 87 grams;
12 Dinner Forks, 20.30 cm., 84 grams;
12 Tablespoons, 20.30 cm., 104 grams;
12 Cake Forks, 14.50 cm., 28 grams;
12 Luncheon / Cake Knives, 20.80 cm., 58 grams;
12 Teaspoons, 14.00 cm., 31 grams;
8 Fish Knives, 20.50 cm., 62 grams;
8 Fish Forks, 18.80 cm., 58 grams;
