Christofle 'Renaissance' Silver-Plated Coffee and Dessert Serving Set with Faux-Ivory Handles
Flatware - Dessert and Coffee Service (including cake server, coffee spoons, dessert forks, and fruit knife) · Christofle (France). Established in 1830 by Charles Christofle, the brand is the preeminent French manufacturer of high-end silverware and silver-plate, known for pioneering electroplating in France.
Pattern: Renaissance (or similar Belle Epoque revival pattern), featuring acanthus leaf ferules and classic tapered handles. This specific 'Gamme' often utilized Bakelite or resin handles for practicality.
Type
Flatware - Dessert and Coffee Service (including cake server, coffee spoons, dessert forks, and fruit knife)
Maker
Christofle (France). Established in 1830 by Charles Christofle, the brand is the preeminent French manufacturer of high-end silverware and silver-plate, known for pioneering electroplating in France.
Material
High-quality silver-plate (Gallia or standard Christofle electroplate) on the metal components; handles are composed of early thermo-set resin or celluloid (faux-ivory). The server and knife likely have stainless steel or silver-plated steel blades.
Dimensions
Standard dessert/tea service sizes: Cake server approx. 25-28cm; spoons approx. 12-14cm; forks approx. 15cm. Lightweight due to the resin handle construction compared to solid silver.
Description
An elegant mismatched-count dessert service highlighting the luxury of Christofle's plated wares. The set contrasts cool, bright silver ornamentation with the warmth of cream-colored faux-ivory handles. The acanthus leaf detailing provides a regal, traditional French aesthetic, perfect for formal tea or afternoon dessert service.
Key Features
Richly detailed cast acanthus ferules; high-quality French silver-plating; moisture-resistant faux-ivory handles; presence of the specialized pastry/cocktail forks.
Material & Composition
High-quality silver-plate (Gallia or standard Christofle electroplate) on the metal components; handles are composed of early thermo-set resin or celluloid (faux-ivory). The server and knife likely have stainless steel or silver-plated steel blades.
Finish & Decoration
Bright polished silver finish on the working ends. The decorative ferules (the collars between handle and utensil) feature heavy Neoclassical-style cast decoration, specifically acanthus leaf and foliate scrolls in the Rococo-Revival style.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Expected marks include the Christofle 'OC' (Orfèvrerie Christofle) weight mark and the 'scales' symbol used for silver-plate. Smaller items may be stamped simply 'CHRISTOFLE' on the neck or blade.
Construction Details
Machine-pressed and polished metal functional parts with cast decorative ferules. The handles are 'pinned' or epoxied onto metal tangs extending from the utensils. This is a common 20th-century assembly for picnic or mixed-material sets.
Functional Features
Tapered 'pistol' style handles for ergonomic grip; serrated or sharp edge on the cake server; two-tine or wide-tine dessert forks designed for pastries.
Handle & Grip Details
Simulated ivory (ivorine) handles made from resin or Bakelite. Smooth finish with a rounded pommel. Note: These are synthetic, not natural ivory, making them more durable for washing but susceptible to high heat.
Craftsmanship Details
The ferules show excellent relief, indicating high-quality molds. Alignment between the metal tangs and the handles is straight, characteristic of Christofle's quality control.
Authentication Indicators
Symmetry in the casting of the ferules; the 'Christofle' font on the server blade (visible on the left item); consistent bolster design across different utensil types.
Origin & Manufacturing
France (Paris/Saint-Denis). Christofle's manufacturing traditions focus on thick silver-plating (often 'triple plated') ensuring longevity and a 'sterling look'.
Era & Period
Belle Époque / Mid-20th Century Revival (c. 1950s-1970s design based on earlier 19th-century motifs). The mix of classic silver ornamentation with synthetic handles is typical of high-end 1960s hostessing sets.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960-1980. The condition of the resin and the style of the 'leboncoin' watermark (modern marketplace) suggest a late-mid-century production still in excellent use.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Art de Vivre' (Art of Living) synonymous with French culture, where even secondary dessert utensils are treated as objects of high design and status.
Condition Notes
Very Good. Metal shows light surface scratches consistent with use. The resin handles appear intact without the common cracking (crazing) seen in older celluloid. Slight tarnish is visible in the recessed areas of the casting.
Value Estimate
$250 - $450 USD for the partial set (9 pieces), depending on the specific Christofle line identification and local market demand for vintage hotel-style silver.
Care & Maintenance
Hand wash only; never place in a dishwasher as high heat will melt the handle glue or crack the resin. Use a mild silver foam (like Wright's) for the ferules to avoid removing the decorative oxidation.
Similar Pieces
Ercuis makes similar 'Empire' sets with resin handles; Sabre Paris offers modern versions, though with less intricate silver casting.
Interesting Facts
Christofle was the official purveyor to King Louis-Philippe and later Emperor Napoleon III. Their silver-plate is often considered more collectible than many other brands' solid silver due to the superior design quality.