French Art Deco Timbale / Beaker by Christofle, Gallia Collection
Hollowware (Beaker / Cup / Timbale) · Christofle (Orfèvrerie Christofle, Paris, founded 1830). Famous for its Gallia line, which utilized a specific alloy and high-quality silver plating techniques.
Pattern: Gallia Collection, Modernist Multi-Ring Pattern. Introduced during the Art Deco period, characterized by geometric simplicity.
Type
Hollowware (Beaker / Cup / Timbale)
Maker
Christofle (Orfèvrerie Christofle, Paris, founded 1830). Famous for its Gallia line, which utilized a specific alloy and high-quality silver plating techniques.
Material
Metal Blanc (White Metal base), silver-plated. Identified by the 'Gallia' and 'Prod. Christofle' branding often applied to this specific alloy.
Dimensions
Standard timbale dimensions: approx 7-8 cm height, 6 cm diameter at rim; weight roughly 100-150 grams depending on base metal thickness.
Description
An elegant French silver-plated timbale from the renowned Christofle Gallia collection. This piece exemplifies the Art Deco movement's shift away from ornate floral motifs toward industrial-inspired geometric shapes. The three horizontal bands give the piece a modern architectural feel, while the high-quality plating maintains a luxurious mirror-like finish characteristic of the prestige brand.
Key Features
Christofle Knight mark on base; three-ring decorative motif; 'Gallia' metal composition; high-lustre plating; flat base without traditional foot ring.
Material & Composition
Metal Blanc (White Metal base), silver-plated. Identified by the 'Gallia' and 'Prod. Christofle' branding often applied to this specific alloy.
Finish & Decoration
Polished silver plate with three horizontal, parallel concentric rings (bands) applied or incised around the lower half of the body. Minimalist Art Deco style.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The base features the Christofle 'OC' chess piece mark (knight) within a square, typically accompanied by the rooster (Gallia) mark or 'PROD. CHRISTOFLE' and a numeric production code/stamp.
Construction Details
Spun metal body from a single sheet with machine-applied decorative banding; smooth seamless interior. Industrial manufacture consistent with Christofle's 20th-century production.
Functional Features
Single-walled vessel intended for wine, water, or spirits. Slightly tapered body for stacking and ergonomic grip.
Handle & Grip Details
Handleless (Beaker form). The decorative rings serve as a tactile grip to prevent slipping.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality machine production. Precision spinning ensures uniform wall thickness, and the hallmark strike is crisp and well-registered on the flat base.
Authentication Indicators
The presence of the square chess piece mark and the specific spacing of the decorative bands are consistent with archival Christofle designs. Metal density and hallmark depth appearing authentic to period dies.
Origin & Manufacturing
France, likely Paris workshop or the Saint-Denis factory. Part of French high-end commercial metalware tradition.
Era & Period
Art Deco (1920-1940); modernist influence with a transition toward mid-century functionalism.
Age Estimate
Circa 1930-1950. The specific maker's mark and geometric ring pattern are hallmarks of second-quarter 20th-century French design.
Cultural Significance
Represented the democratization of luxury in early 20th-century France, moving from aristocratic rococo styles to the sleek aesthetics sought by the rising middle class and high-end hotels.
Condition Notes
Very Good. Visible surface scratches and minor tarnish consistent with age and stacking. No deep gouges or significant plate loss (silver bleed) visible on the base.
Value Estimate
$60 - $120 USD. Value is driven by the Christofle brand and the popularity of Art Deco barware among modern collectors.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with mild soapy water; polish with a soft cloth and non-abrasive silver cream (e.g., Hagerty). Avoid dishwasher use as it will strip the silver plating over time.
Similar Pieces
Ercuis Art Deco beakers (often have different ring spacing); generic French 800 silver timbales (usually thinner metal and hand-engraved floral patterns).
Interesting Facts
The Gallia line was launched by Christofle to experiment with more modern, avant-garde designs and different alloy compositions compared to their traditional 'Metier d'Art' sterling pieces.