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Christofle Desk Sets

French

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.

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Creator: Christofle
Set Containing Letter Opener and Magnifying Glass by Christofle
Set Containing Letter Opener and Magnifying Glass by Christofle

Set Containing Letter Opener and Magnifying Glass by Christofle

By Christofle

Located in Roma, IT

Silver metal set realized by Christofle in the mid20th Century. Includes a magnifying glass and a Letter Opener. In their original box. Excellent condition.

Category

Mid-20th Century French Christofle Desk Sets

Materials

Metal, Silver

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Christofle desk sets for sale on 1stDibs.

Christofle desk sets are available for sale on 1stDibs. These distinctive items are frequently made of silver and are designed with extraordinary care. There are many options to choose from in our collection of Christofle desk sets, although silver editions of this piece are particularly popular. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider desk sets by Jacques Adnet, Hermès, and Cartier. Prices for Christofle desk sets can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these items begin at $296 and can go as high as $296, while a piece like these, on average, fetch $296.
Questions About Christofle Desk Sets
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 1, 2024
    Christofle is known for designing luxury silverware and tableware. 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. 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 the roots of founder Charles Christofle, who got his start as a copper jeweler apprentice. On 1stDibs, shop a wide variety of Christofle pieces.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Christofle is made in France. This company is renowned for its luxury tableware and flatware and has been based in Paris, France since it was founded in 1830. Browse a collection of authentic Christofle pieces from some of the top sellers on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertNovember 26, 2024
    To identify a Christofle, examine it closely in search of the maker's marks. Prior to 1935, Christofle typically marked its silverware with a balance and the initials “OC.” Later pieces will generally display a chess piece with the same initials. Examples of these marks are available on the official Christofle website for you to compare to the markings on your piece. For further assistance making an identification, consider consulting a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer. On 1stDibs, explore a diverse assortment of Christofle silver wares.
  • 1stDibs ExpertAugust 20, 2024
    To identify Christofle cutlery, look for maker’s marks. Depending on the age of your piece, the marking may be "GC," "CC" or "Christofle." Alternately, pieces from the Gallia line may only say "Gallia." If you wish to learn the style name of your silverware, compare it to images shared by trusted online resources. A certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer can also be of assistance. Explore a diverse assortment of Christofle silverware on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 23, 2024
    To identify Christofle silverware, first find its maker's mark. On pieces produced before 1935, you'll normally find a balance stamp along with the initials “OC.” Later pieces show a chess piece along with the “OC” initials. The official Christofle website has a reference page with images of its various markings that can assist with the identification process. To determine what pattern your silverware is, examine images posted in identification guides found on various trusted online resources. A certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer can also be of help in identifying Christofle silverware. Explore a large collection of Christofle silver on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 22, 2024
    Yes, Christofle is real silver. The French silversmith produces pieces out of sterling silver that are roughly 93% pure silver and 7% copper. In addition, Christofle offers silver-plate items, which have a thin layer of 99.9% fine silver over a base metal. Explore a selection of Christofle silver wares on 1stDibs.