Christofle Silver-Plated Heraldic Coaster with Royal Crest of Denmark
Wine Coaster / Commemorative Medallic Tray · Christofle (Orfèvrerie Christofle), founded in 1830 by Charles Christofle in Paris. Highly prestigious silversmith known for pioneering electroplating in France and supplying royal houses across Europe.
Pattern: Custom Heraldic Commission / Royal Presentation Line; introduced late 20th century.
Type
Wine Coaster / Commemorative Medallic Tray
Maker
Christofle (Orfèvrerie Christofle), founded in 1830 by Charles Christofle in Paris. Highly prestigious silversmith known for pioneering electroplating in France and supplying royal houses across Europe.
Material
Silver Plated (Electroplated Nickel Silver - EPNS). High-quality French electroplate with a specialized oxidized finish.
Dimensions
Diameter: Approx 10-12 cm (4-4.75 inches). Standard wine bottle coaster size. Estimated weight: 120-150 grams.
Description
A refined silver-plated coaster by the celebrated House of Christofle. The piece features a central armorial design depicting heraldic supporters—a crowned lion and a stag—supporting a shield under a royal crown. Encased in a laurel-leaf border, the piece balances a matte grey oxidized background against the brighter silver edges. Originally used in luxury hospitality or royal circles, it represents the intersection of French craft and European nobility.
Key Features
Distinctive oxidized finish (patinated look), the numeral marking, and the high-relief Danish Royal-influenced heraldry.
Material & Composition
Silver Plated (Electroplated Nickel Silver - EPNS). High-quality French electroplate with a specialized oxidized finish.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized satin finish with relief-molded heraldry. Features the Royal Arms of Denmark's lions, hearts, and shields (simplified) surrounded by a laurel wreath. Style is Neoclassical with a matte, antiqued background and polished highlights on the relief.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The front displays a stylized number '3' (likely a limited series or table number). Reverse (not visible) typically includes the 'OC' scales mark and 'CHRISTOFLE' in a rectangle.
Construction Details
Die-struck or pressure-cast base with machine-finished edges. The high-relief decoration is achieved through industrial pressing of the base metal (Nickel Silver) before the plating process.
Functional Features
Flat circular form with raised lip to catch condensation or bottle drips. The number '3' indicates use in a commercial or formal setting for inventory or seating management.
Handle & Grip Details
None; rimless flat-edged plate designed for tabletop use.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision die-work with clean definition in the laurel leaves and animal fur. Higher quality than average silver plate due to the thickness of the silver layer and the sophisticated patination process.
Authentication Indicators
Consistency of the '3' typeface with high-end hotel/restaurant ware; Christofle's signature satin-plating quality; correct heraldry proportions.
Origin & Manufacturing
France (Paris/Saint-Denis). Manufactured in the Christofle factory using standardized industrial silver-plating traditions.
Era & Period
Modern Reproduction / Late 20th Century (1970-1995). Historical Revival style utilizing contemporary plating techniques.
Age Estimate
Circa 1980-1990. The style of the number '3' and the crispness of the molding suggest a modern vintage piece.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Art de la Table' tradition, where utility items like coasters were elevated to pieces of status through the addition of family or institutional crests.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent. Minor surface abrasions consistent with use. Tarnish is intentional (oxidized finish), though light sulfide deposits are visible in the crevices. Grading: Excellent.
Value Estimate
$75 - $150 USD depending on the specific provenance or if part of a numbered set.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth; avoid abrasive powders or heavy polishing creams which might remove the intentional dark oxidation in the background.
Similar Pieces
Vintage Christofle 'Gallia' line coasters or Ercuis heraldic plates. Differences lie in the specific crest and the use of the number '3'.
Interesting Facts
Christofle has long been the official purveyor of silverware to several Danish royal households and the Danish Embassy in Paris.