Christofle Silver-Plated Demitasse Set with Porcelain Liners and Tray
Tea/Coffee Service (Demitasse Set with Tray and Bowl) · Christofle, founded in France in 1830 by Charles Christofle, is a premier French goldsmith and tableware manufacturer globally renowned for introducing electroplating to France in 1842 and maintaining exceptional luxury standards.
Pattern: Modernist or transitional hotelware/dining collection, featuring clean lines, functional elegance, and standardized modular elements typical of mid-20th century European design.
Type
Tea/Coffee Service (Demitasse Set with Tray and Bowl)
Maker
Christofle, founded in France in 1830 by Charles Christofle, is a premier French goldsmith and tableware manufacturer globally renowned for introducing electroplating to France in 1842 and maintaining exceptional luxury standards.
Material
Silver-plated base metal (EPNS / Electroplated Nickel Silver) combined with high-fired white ceramic/porcelain inserts for the cup liners.
Dimensions
Tray measures approximately 30 cm by 15 cm; cups and holders standard demitasse proportions; total weight estimated between 800 to 1200 grams depending on porcelain and silver density.
Description
An elegant and functional Christofle silver-plated demitasse coffee or espresso service comprising a rectangular rounded serving tray, two ceramic-lined cup holders with loop handles, a sugar bowl with a matching lid, and two pristine white porcelain tumbler inserts. The set showcases clean lines, highly polished surfaces, and the exemplary craftsmanship expected from the legendary French luxury house.
Key Features
Removable white porcelain cup liners nestled in polished silver-plated ring mounts, matching rectangular serving tray with stepped rim, and integrated sugar bowl with fitted lid.
Material & Composition
Silver-plated base metal (EPNS / Electroplated Nickel Silver) combined with high-fired white ceramic/porcelain inserts for the cup liners.
Finish & Decoration
Polished mirror finish on the silver-plated tray exterior and interior components, complemented by sleek, unadorned surfaces characteristic of modernist functional design.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Typical Christofle hallmark featuring the scales and initials CC surrounded by four stars, alongside numerical plating stamps indicating silver content or batch indicators.
Construction Details
Machine-manufactured components with hand-finished assembly; silver-plated frames die-formed and soldered, paired with fitted porcelain slip-in liners and a spun metal bowl and lid.
Functional Features
Modular cup holders with open-work rings designed to securely hold removable ceramic liners for easy cleaning and thermal insulation, paired with a matching serving tray.
Handle & Grip Details
Loop-shaped cast silver-plated handles attached securely to the cup holders, offering ergonomic gripping space typical of modernist European coffee services.
Craftsmanship Details
High industrial craftsmanship standard featuring precise die-rolling, smooth soldering joints, flawless mirror polishing, and perfectly engineered tolerances between metal holders and ceramic liners.
Authentication Indicators
Clear presence of Christofle maker's stamps and hallmark symbols, precise edge finishing, consistent weight distribution, and high-quality porcelain inserts matching French hospitality ware standards.
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in Paris or Yutz, France, adhering to traditional French silversmithing excellence combined with industrial manufacturing techniques.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (circa 1950-1970), distinguished by minimalist geometry, clean industrial manufacturing, and practical luxury aesthetics.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1970, based on the modernist minimalist aesthetic, construction techniques, and standard Christofle backstamps from the post-war era.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the mid-20th-century European cafe society culture and the elevation of everyday utilitarian objects into sophisticated design art forms.
Condition Notes
Very Good vintage condition. Light surface scratches and minor tarnish consistent with gentle use and age; silver plating remains intact with no visible base metal breakthrough; porcelain inserts are clean and free of chips.
Value Estimate
Estimated market value ranges between $250 to $600 USD depending on the completeness of the set, current condition, and buyer demand for vintage French silverplate.
Care & Maintenance
Hand wash components in warm soapy water using a soft cloth; remove porcelain liners before cleaning silver parts; polish silver surfaces periodically with high-quality cream like Wright's; store in anti-tarnish cloth.
Similar Pieces
Similar modernist silver-plated tea and coffee services by European makers such as WMF (Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik) or Ercuis.
Interesting Facts
Christofle has historically supplied luxurious tableware to royal courts, luxury ocean liners like the SS Normandie, and elite dining establishments worldwide.