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.
Covered Dish "trompe l'oeil" c.1868 Old Chistofle also at Orsay Museum
By Christofle
Located in Paris, FR
Exemplifying the elegance of the Louis XV style, this incredible silvered metal dish or plate, expertly crafted by Christofle during the 19th century, stands as a rare treasure. Its ...
Silver Plate
Signed Buccellati fruits basket table ornament, sterling silver 925
By Mario Buccellati, Buccellati
Located in Paris, FR
In excellent condition, ready to adorn your table. This refined sterling silver piece is a creation of the renowned Buccellati house, celebrated for its intricate work with precious ...
Silver, Sterling Silver
French Ewer wine service, cut Crystal handle ornate chiseled solid silver 19th
By Henri Soufflot 1
Located in Paris, FR
19th-century French twisted and hand-engraved crystal ewer with sterling silver mount. The handle is beautifully adorned with stylized acanthus leaves, while the upper part of the mo...
Crystal, Sterling Silver
Individual Asparagus Tongs CHRISTOFLE Silver-Plated
By Christofle
Located in Paris, FR
An elegant individual asparagus tongs crafted by the prestigious Christofle, a true emblem of French refinement. This piece perfectly combines beauty and functionality, made of silve...
Silver Plate
Game center piece Bronze, c. 1860 Christofle goldsmith to Emperor Napoleon III
By Christofle
Located in Paris, FR
An exceptional centerpiece signed Christofle artwork is silver-plated bronze with a very nice patina. The artistic part is a work of achievement; the base is pierced, composed of bra...
Bronze
Silver-plated tureen, liner and stand, late 19th century, Thomas Germain style
By François-Thomas Germain
Located in Paris, FR
Elegant silver-plated tureen with its removable liner and matching stand, crafted in the 20th century. The body features a central crowned coat of arms in high relief, framed by fine...
Silver Plate
Christofle Silverplate Wine Trolley
By Christofle
Located in New Orleans, LA
Silverplate Wine Trolley Christofle Circa 1873 This magnificent late 19th-century silver-plated wine trolley was expertly crafted by Christofle, the esteemed French firm renowned fo...
Silver Plate, Bronze
English Silver Plated Garrard & Company Wine Bottle Cradle Pourer
By Garrard & Co. Ltd.
Located in Hamilton, Ontario
An early English wine bottle cradle, silver plated, bearing Garrard & Co Ltd (Crown Jewelers) 112 Regent St, London trademark, frame features a grap...
Silver Plate
Novelty silver plate Chariot Carriage Continental C.1870
Located in Toronto, ON
Novelty silver plate Chariot Carriage Continental C.1870. Together with associated spoon could be used for Condiments or small mints etc. Very intricately made with pierced frieze su...
Silver Plate
Victorian Sterling Silver Double Coaster Trolley by Barnard, 1839
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
A magnificent, fine and impressive antique Victorian English sterling silver double coaster trolley; an addition to our wine and drinks related silverware collection. This magnificent, fine and impressive antique silver coaster trolley has been crafted in the form of a carriage. The body of each coaster is embellished with fine and impressive cast scrolling fruiting vine decoration extending to the upper shaped rim; this ornamentation includes vines, foliage and grape clusters. The body of each exceptional coaster is further embellished with three contemporary bright cut engraved crests, each depicting an armoured arm embowed beneath a coronet. The pair of fine and impressive coasters are set upon an undercarriage which is fitted with impressive cast spoked wheels; the exceptional larger rear wheels indicate the fine quality of this superior example. The anterior portion of this exceptional double coaster trolley has been designed to pivot on an axle; the trolley is fitted with a swivelling handle, enabling the magnificent example to be rolled and turned. This double coaster trolley retains the original turned oak wood bases. These magnificent antique silver carriage...
Sterling Silver
Antique Rogers Silver Plate and Glass Condiment Wagon C1920
Located in Big Flats, NY
Antique Rogers Silver Plate and Glass Condiment Wagon C1920 Measures - 13"H x 5.5"W x 3.5"D A charming antique condiment wagon crafted by R...
Silver Plate
English Silverplated Figural Double Wine Trolley
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
English silverplated figural double wine trolley England, 1900s Exquisite English silverplated figural double wine trolley, originating from the 1900s in England. This elegant piece boasts intricate workmanship and timeless charm. Measuring 21.5 inches wide and 5 inches high, it features supporting putto figures on each side, standing at 7.5 inches tall, enhancing its classical allure. The trolley includes wood wine coasters...
Silver Plate
