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.
$560
H 0.5 in W 8 in D 10.38 in
Small Cocktail Tray by Christofle, French Art Deco Silver Plated Serving Tray
By Christofle
Located in Miami, FL
French Art Deco style silver-plated serving tray from Christofle. This small cocktail tray is hallmarked on the reverse. In very good condition, wear consistent with age, materials...
Silver Plate
$33,985
H 1.26 in W 18.15 in D 24.06 in
Very Large vintage Sterling Silver Tray / Salver / Platter 1933 Serving Drinks
By Harrods Ltd (Richard Woodman Burbridge)
Located in London, GB
A magnificent vintage rectangular Sterling Silver Tray with shaped corners and standing on 4 raised feet. The Rectangular Platter has a highly polished finish that allows its elegant...
Sterling Silver
$547
H 0.79 in W 10.24 in D 7.88 in
Christofle Paris – Silver-plated tray / Serving tray with beaded edge
Located in Wien, AT
Elegant, rectangular serving tray from the renowned French luxury brand Christofle (Paris). A timeless classic for a stylishly set table or as an elegant decorative piece. (Correspon...
Silver Plate
Christofle business card tray
By Andree Putman
Located in 'S-HERTOGENBOSCH, NL
Christofle business card tray in silver-plate. Designer: Andrée Putman. This piece is bought on Barbados at the famous hotel Farmont Royal Pavilion. See the inscription, picture numb...
Silver Plate
$957
H 0.75 in W 18.5 in D 12.5 in
Art Deco Silver Plated Cocktail Tray by Asprey, London, circa .1930
By Asprey & Garrard Limited
Located in Bath, GB
A very smart cocktail / serving tray in silver plate by the luxury silversmith / retailer, Asprey of Bond Street, London. Signed on the underside. Of oval form with two handles. J...
Silver Plate
$1,107
H 1.97 in W 15.75 in D 24.41 in
20th Century French Silver Plated Serving Tray Gallia by Christofle
By Christofle
Located in Sofia, BG
Large serving tray made in silver plate metal by French manufacturer CHRISTOFLE model Galia. Very good authentic condition with no restorations and wearing all stamps on the bottom o...
Silver Plate
Christofle, Paris - Laque de Chine Serving Tray c.1980
By Christofle
Located in Bath, GB
A rare and highly sought-after piece of luxury silver plated Christofle in the Laque de Chine line; a masterpiece from Christofle’s iconic Talisman collection. Designed by Bernard Y...
Silver Plate
Christofle, Paris - Rare Grand Art Deco Tray c.1940
By Christofle
Located in Bath, GB
An absolutely stunning large silver plated tray with a striking border and two grand shaped palm leaf handles by Maison Christofle of Paris. Just back from our silversmiths workshop where it has been overhauled, professionally deep cleaned and polished, restoring it to it's former glory. The underside is signed with various Orfèvrerie Christofle...
Silver Plate
Christofle 'Grand Hotel Paris' Silver-Plated Oval Tray, circa 1920s
By Christofle
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Christofle 'Grand Hotel Paris' Silver-Plated Oval Tray, circa 1920s A gleaming relic of French luxury hospitality, this silver-plated oval serving tray by Christofle is engraved Gra...
Silver Plate
$1,186Sale Price|20% Off
H 3.75 in W 23.82 in D 14.57 in
Antique Presentation Serving Tray, English, Silver Plated, Cocktail, Edwardian
Located in Hele, Devon, GB
This is an antique presentation serving tray. An English, silver plated cocktail or aperitif tray, dating to the Edwardian period, circa 1910. Elegant Edwardian serving tray, ideal for cocktail gatherings or afternoon soirees Crafted in quality silver plate, presenting bright, reflective tones throughout Lightly aged patina enhances the delicate fretwork pattern across the surface Subtle signs of gentle polishing lend character to the timeworn silver finish Features inset butler’s grasps at each end for ease of handling and serving Unmarked as such, yet reminiscent of the fine craftsmanship from Mappin & Webb Suited for use as a drinks tray, canapé platter, or decorative presentation piece A distinctive addition to period interiors, country kitchens, or formal dining rooms With refined elegance and timeless appeal, this antique silver plated tray...
Silver Plate
