Vintage Christofle France Silver Plated "Perle" Pair of Trio-Bowl Snack Dishes
About the Item
- Creator:Christofle (Manufacturer)
- Dimensions:Height: 2 in (5.08 cm)Diameter: 5.5 in (13.97 cm)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:1980-1989
- Date of Manufacture:1980
- Condition:
- Seller Location:San Francisco, CA
- Reference Number:1stDibs: LU977515169222
Christofle
Although he started his career as a jeweler in 1830 — after apprenticing with his copper jeweler brother-in-law years earlier — Charles Christofle (1805–63) recognized that Second Empire France had an untapped audience for luxury silverware and tableware.
Gold and silver gilt had been the high-end standard in the 18th century, yet society after the Industrial Revolution demanded a more affordable, but still refined, approach. So in the 1840s, Christofle cornered the market on electrolytic gilding and silver plating, dominating the hold on patents in the country for over a decade. His work soon attracted the attention of Louis-Philippe I and then Napoleon III, under whom he was named Fournisseur de l’Empereur, cementing the prestige of his brand.
While Christofle created decadent centerpieces and tableware for the French palaces — as well as prominent clients like the Orient Express — the company’s electroplating of silverware that was far less expensive than that made by silversmiths attained widespread popularity. At a time when many who could not afford gold or silver still used wooden utensils, Christofle was a game changer for at-home dining. An appearance at the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago furthered the company’s reach to American consumers who would soon rival the manufacturer’s European clientele.
The 20th century saw Christofle adapting to changing tastes in its offerings, such as the Aria collection, which debuted in 1985 with column-like lines on its flatware designed by Bernard Yot, and the playful egg-shaped silverware container introduced in 2015 that opens to reveal a full flatware set. The company also now sells barware, home accessories and even jewelry, harkening back to its roots. Now almost two centuries old, Christofle maintains its reputation as a leading flatware and silverware company under the ownership of the Chalhoub group, its utensils gracing tables in homes, hotels and restaurants all over the world.
Shop authentic Christofle serveware, ceramics, decorative objects and more on 1stDibs.
You May Also Like
Late 20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Serving Bowls
Silver Plate
20th Century Serving Bowls
Silver
Antique Late 19th Century Indian Late Victorian Serving Bowls
Silver Plate
Early 20th Century Edwardian Serving Bowls
Silver Plate
Antique Mid-19th Century French Napoleon III Centerpieces
Silver Plate, Bronze
Late 20th Century French Regency Serving Bowls
Ceramic
20th Century French Neoclassical Serving Bowls
Silver Plate
20th Century French American Classical Serving Bowls
Silver Plate
Late 20th Century French Regency Serving Bowls
Ceramic
Early 20th Century French Art Nouveau Serving Bowls
Silver Plate
