Christofle 'Uni' Pattern Silver-Plated Lidded Serving Dish or Tureen
Hollowware - Lidded Serving Bowl/Tureen · Christofle (France); founded in 1830 by Charles Christofle. Renowned globally for high-end silver plate and luxury hollowware, supplying royalty and the finest hotels.
Pattern: Uni Pattern; a contemporary, minimalist collection featuring clean lines and peripheral gadrooning. Known for timeless elegance and used extensively in hospitality.
Type
Hollowware - Lidded Serving Bowl/Tureen
Maker
Christofle (France); founded in 1830 by Charles Christofle. Renowned globally for high-end silver plate and luxury hollowware, supplying royalty and the finest hotels.
Material
Heavy silver plate over a high-quality base metal. Christofle uses a proprietary electroplating process ensuring high durability and a deep, mirror-like luster.
Dimensions
Approximately 20-25cm in diameter. Weight is substantial, likely 800-1200g, indicative of Christofle's heavy-gauge base metal construction.
Description
This Christofle Uni lidded dish is a masterpiece of functional minimalism. Featuring the signature 'Uni' reeded edge, the piece emphasizes purity of form and the play of light over its convex domed lid. The 1996 inscription suggests it was perhaps a trophy or housewarming gift from a notable institution. Its sleek profile makes it suitable for both traditional and modern table settings.
Key Features
Precision-spaced gadrooning on the rim, high-luster heavy plating, domed lid, and the distinct lack of ornate handles in favor of a streamlined silhouette.
Material & Composition
Heavy silver plate over a high-quality base metal. Christofle uses a proprietary electroplating process ensuring high durability and a deep, mirror-like luster.
Finish & Decoration
Polished mirror finish. The primary decoration is a sharp, machine-turned gadrooned or 'reeded' rim around the lid. The surface features a personalized inscription/engraving commemorating an event in 1996.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Expected marks on bottom: 'Christofle' in block letters, the 'OC' scales hallmark with a bee and stars (Orfèvrerie Christofle), and the square silver-plate quality mark.
Construction Details
Spun metal body with a die-struck gadrooned rim. Precision machine manufacturing with hand-finishing and polishing. The lid is domed and fits flush to the base rim.
Functional Features
Tight-fitting lid for heat retention, wide rim for easy handling, and deep bowl for serving hot side dishes or stews.
Handle & Grip Details
No visible side handles. The lid is removed by gripping the outer rim or a central knob (obscured by angle). This minimalist design relies on the rim overhang for transport.
Craftsmanship Details
Superior level silver plating (likely 30-40 microns), uniform machine-struck patterns, and expert polishing that eliminates visible seams or manufacturing marks.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic uniform reeded rim, consistent with Christofle's high-tech manufacturing; standard bowl-to-lid tolerances; professional-grade engraving quality.
Origin & Manufacturing
France, likely manufactured in the Christofle factory in Yainville, Normandy. Inherits the French tradition of 'L'Art de Vivre'.
Era & Period
Modern / Contemporary Era. Designed in the late 20th century under a minimalist aesthetic that bridges Art Deco influence with modern utility.
Age Estimate
Produced circa 1996, confirmed by the commemorative inscription on the lid surface.
Cultural Significance
Represents the late 20th-century shift toward 'functional luxury,' where the prestige of the Christofle brand is combined with ease of maintenance and understated design.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good. The surface shows significant micro-scratching ('spider webbing') consistent with use and polishing. Small pits and scuffs are visible on the lid. No major dents or loss of plating ('bleeding') are apparent.
Value Estimate
$250 - $450 USD. Value is slightly suppressed by the specific 1996 engraving, but maintained by the prestige of the Christofle brand name.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water after use. Polish with Christofle's 'Flash Silver' or a high-quality cream like Wright's. Store in a Pacific Cloth bag to prevent tarnish.
Similar Pieces
Christofle Albi (narrower reeding), Ercuis serving dishes, or vintage Hotel Silver. Christofle Sterling versions are much lighter and require more care.
Interesting Facts
The 'Uni' line is a staple in Michelin-starred restaurants and luxury hotels due to its extreme durability and the way it complements diverse china patterns.