Christofle Decorative Dishes and Vide-Poche

Elegant handmade cast bronze leaf in a polished bronze finish. They may be used as a bowl or just a beautiful decorative object. Each of these splend...

Decorative ceramic vide-poche by Pol Chambost (circa 1950s). Small yet elegant seashell-shaped form with white base and dark, grape-purple outline and lip. Outside of the centre, the...

Charming and unusual handmade polished cast bronze bowl. Each of these original and elegant bowl is handmade individually. Cast using very traditional te...

Set of 2 silver plated metal decorative objects: a "leave" bowl and an "apple" box from the '60s. Pretty good condition: the bowl show light defect on one side as showed in the pictu...

Antique decorative Christofle Gallia Art Nouveau vase with five stems decorated with stag beetles and oak leaves made from silverplated pewter. Marked on the bottom with the manufact...

Each of these splendid brass leaves is handmade individually with incredible detail. Cast using very traditional techniques, they are polished capturing the raw finish of this noble ...

French Art Nouveau Bronze card tray or Pin Tray, Vide - Poche, 1920s This absolutely adorable card tray or pin tray, Vide - Poche, is made of bronze ...

Vintage Hermes "Chaine D'Ancre" blue rectangular porcelain vide poche, change tray or pocket emptier / Made in France circa 1990s Original stamp at underside Width: 6.5 inches / Dept...

Vintage Hermes "Chaine D'Ancre" platinum square porcelain vide-poche, change tray or pocket emptier with base in suede / Made in France circa 1990s Original stamp on the side / comes...

Vintage Hermes "Chaine D'Ancre" platinum rectangular porcelain vide-poche, change tray or pocket emptier / Made in France circa 1990s Original stamp at underside / comes in original ...

Direct from Paris, a magnificent pair of Louis XVI silver plate 3-candle candelabra by France's premier silversmith "Christofle - Gallia Collection", meticulously restored to near new condition, includes two anti-tarnish storage wraps for easy storage, you can't go wrong buying quality, circa early 1900s. The French silversmithing brand Christofle stands as a paragon of artistry, quality, and timeless sophistication in the world of fine silverware. Founded in 1830 by Charles Christofle, the company has built a reputation for exquisite craftsmanship and pioneering innovation. Over nearly two centuries, Christofle has become synonymous with opulence, earning the favor of royalty, securing prestigious awards, and adorning homes and dining tables worldwide. From their revolutionary silver-plating processes to their dazzling silver plate candelabra, Christofle’s creations epitomize the pinnacle of silversmithing artistry. Charles Christofle’s foray into silversmithing began when he took over his wife’s family jewelry workshop. His entrepreneurial vision and artistic sensibilities allowed him to transform the modest enterprise into a global luxury brand. Early on, Christofle recognized the demand for high-quality yet affordable silverware, leading him to explore innovative methods for producing silver-plated items. This ingenuity was paired with a deep commitment to artistry, ensuring that every piece bore the hallmarks of French elegance and meticulous craftsmanship. Christofle’s philosophy of blending tradition with innovation set the company apart. In 1842, Charles Christofle obtained an exclusive license for the electroplating process developed by the English inventors George and Henry Elkington. This technology allowed the company to produce silver-plated goods of unparalleled quality and durability, democratizing the availability of fine silverware. The decision to adopt and refine this technique marked the beginning of Christofle’s ascent to global renown. The electroplating process revolutionized silversmithing by enabling the application of a thin layer of silver onto a base metal, typically copper or nickel silver. This innovation significantly reduced costs without compromising quality, making silverware accessible to a broader clientele. Christofle’s mastery of this technique elevated the art form, as their artisans meticulously ensured that every piece retained the luster, weight, and elegance of solid silver. Christofle’s silver plating involved several intricate steps, each requiring skill and precision. The base metal was first meticulously cleaned to ensure that the silver coating would adhere uniformly. The item was then submerged in an electrolytic bath, where an electric current deposited a fine layer of silver onto its surface. Finally, the piece underwent polishing and finishing, a process that demanded an artisan’s eye for detail and dedication to perfection. The company’s innovations did not stop at electroplating. Christofle continually refined their techniques, developing proprietary methods to enhance the durability and brilliance of their silverware. Their relentless pursuit of excellence ensured that Christofle pieces would retain their splendor for generations, cementing the brand’s reputation for quality and longevity. Christofle’s commitment to excellence quickly attracted the attention of European royalty and nobility. The brand’s association with regal splendor began in 1851, when Napoleon III appointed Christofle as the official purveyor of silverware to the French court. This prestigious commission marked a turning point in the company’s history, solidifying its status as a symbol of luxury and refinement. The French court’s endorsement opened the doors to further royal patronage across Europe and beyond. Christofle created bespoke silverware for monarchs, aristocrats, and heads of state, often crafting pieces that were as much works of art as functional items. Their designs graced palaces, embassies, and luxury liners, including the opulent dining rooms of the Titanic and the Orient Express. Among Christofle’s most notable commissions was the creation of the Sèvres table service for Napoleon III, a stunning collection that showcased the company’s technical prowess and artistic flair. The service featured intricate designs inspired by classical motifs, reflecting the grandeur and sophistication of the Second Empire. Christofle’s ability to seamlessly blend tradition with innovation ensured that their creations remained relevant and desirable, even as tastes and styles evolved. At the 1855 Exposition Universelle in Paris, Christofle was awarded a gold medal for their groundbreaking electroplating technique. This recognition underscored the company’s role as a pioneer in the field of silversmithing and solidified their reputation as a leader in luxury silverware. Subsequent exhibitions in London, Vienna, and Philadelphia further showcased Christofle’s mastery, earning them accolades for both technical innovation and artistic excellence. Christofle’s enduring appeal lies in their ability to strike a harmonious balance between form and function. Their pieces are not only visually stunning but also practical, reflecting the company’s commitment to creating silverware that enhances everyday life. This dedication to excellence has earned Christofle a place among the world’s most esteemed luxury brands. One of Christofle’s most iconic creations is their collection of silver plate candelabra. These masterpieces exemplify the company’s dedication to artistry and craftsmanship, serving as both functional lighting fixtures and decorative centerpieces. Christofle’s candelabra...

One of a series of bronze sculptural reliefs featuring Zodiac signs sculpted by Paul Manship in 1946, this piece presents the two Gemini twins as muscular children. Manship was Amer...