Christofle Fidelio Pattern Silver Plate Presentation Plate or Salver
Hollowware (Small Tray / Presentation Plate) · Christofle (Orfèvrerie Christofle), founded 1830 in Paris, France. Renowned for high-end luxury silver and the introduction of electroplating to France.
Pattern: Fidelio collection; characterized by its clean, classic lines and ribbed (gadroon) border motifs. Introduced in the 19th century and remains a signature collection.
Type
Hollowware (Small Tray / Presentation Plate)
Maker
Christofle (Orfèvrerie Christofle), founded 1830 in Paris, France. Renowned for high-end luxury silver and the introduction of electroplating to France.
Material
Silver Plate (EPNS/Electroplated Nickel Silver). Christofle uses a high-quality base metal with a heavy silver deposit. Features a commemorative engraving on the center surface.
Dimensions
Approximately 15-20 cm in diameter. Estimated weight around 200-350 grams. Typical size for a bread plate or small display salver.
Description
A sophisticated silver-plated presentation plate by the legendary house of Christofle. Featuring the timeless Fidelio reeded border, this piece serves as a commemorative trophy for a golf tournament ('1er Prix Brut'). Its clean lines and brilliant luster epitomize Parisian luxury.
Key Features
Precision ribbed border (gadrooning), central commemorative engraving, and the prestigious Christofle maker name associated with French high society.
Material & Composition
Silver Plate (EPNS/Electroplated Nickel Silver). Christofle uses a high-quality base metal with a heavy silver deposit. Features a commemorative engraving on the center surface.
Finish & Decoration
Mirror-polished center with a Neo-classical 'Gadroon' or vertical-ribbed border. Includes a custom inscription in French referring to a golf tournament award ('1er Prix Brut').
Hallmarks & Stamps
Expected markings on the reverse include the 'OC' scales mark, the name 'CHRISTOFLE', and the square 'C' hallmark indicating silver plate quality (Grosse Argenture).
Construction Details
Machine-pressed or die-struck from a base metal sheet, followed by heavy electroplating. Precision-tooled border decoration and professionally engraved center.
Functional Features
Raised rim to prevent items from sliding; flat surface suitable for engraving; durable high-micron silver plating designed for longevity.
Handle & Grip Details
None; circular plate form designed to be held by the rim or supported by a display stand.
Craftsmanship Details
Masterful industrial production; the seamless integration of functionality with a high-luxury finish. The border is crisp and reflects light with surgical precision.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic Fidelio border detail; signature Christofle engraving style; expected wear patterns on a piece of high-quality plated hollowware.
Origin & Manufacturing
France, likely manufactured in the Christofle factory in Saint-Denis. Represents the pinnacle of French industrial silversmithing.
Era & Period
Modern / Late 20th Century based on the engraving style and 'Fidelio' pattern longevity. Stylistically Neoclassical.
Age Estimate
Circa 1980-2000. Datiing is based on the specific typography of the engraving and the condition of the silver plate.
Cultural Significance
Represents the tradition of silver as a symbol of achievement in sports and society; reflects the 19th-century French bourgeois aesthetic adapted for modern life.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good. Noted surface scratches consistent with use; light tarnish 'clouding' in the center suggests it needs a gentle polish. No visible plate loss.
Value Estimate
$50 - $125 USD. Secondary market value is tempered by the personal engraving, which makes it less desirable for home dining but collectible as memorabilia.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft cloth and a high-quality cream like Wright's Silver Cream. Avoid abrasive sponges which can wear through the silver plating to the nickel base.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. English King plates, Reed & Barton Chippendale trays, or Gorham gadroon-edge platters. Christofle is generally higher tier than standard silver plate.
Interesting Facts
Christofle was the official supplier to King Louis-Philippe and Emperor Napoleon III; 'Prix Brut' refers to a golf award for the lowest total strokes regardless of handicap.