Christofle 'Spatours' Pattern Silver-Plated Flatware
Flatware (Spoon or Fork Handle) · Christofle, France. Founded in 1830 by Charles Christofle. Known for pioneering electroplating and supplying European royalty.
Pattern: Spatours Pattern. Introduced in 1862; remains a core classic pattern in current production.
Type
Flatware (Spoon or Fork Handle)
Maker
Christofle, France. Founded in 1830 by Charles Christofle. Known for pioneering electroplating and supplying European royalty.
Material
High-quality silver-plated base metal (typically Nickel Silver or Cupro-Nickel). Christofle uses a thick micron plating standard.
Dimensions
Standard dinner size approx 18-21cm. Weighted by thick base metal for a substantial, solid feel similar to sterling.
Description
A refined example of French table art, the Spatours pattern combines the 'spatule' (spatula) and 'contour' (outline) to create a timeless, versatile aesthetic.
Key Features
The distinctive balance scale 'OC' mark and the clean, architectural triple-ridge border on the handle.
Material & Composition
High-quality silver-plated base metal (typically Nickel Silver or Cupro-Nickel). Christofle uses a thick micron plating standard.
Finish & Decoration
Mirror polish finish. Neoclassical 'Spatours' design featuring fine ridge borders and a rounded, spatulate-shaped handle terminal.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Contains the 'OC' Chess Piece scales mark (Orfèvrerie Christofle); a digit 'I' or 'II' for plating grade; and the 'Christofle' name or 'C' within a square cartouche.
Construction Details
Precision die-struck from sheet metal, meticulously polished and electroplated with pure silver.
Functional Features
Ergonomic tapered handle, weighted specifically for balance during dining use.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid metal handle with a ridge-and-cove profile. Smooth texture designed for a comfortable grip.
Craftsmanship Details
Exceptional edge finishing and high-clarity hallmark strikes indicate superior French industrial craftsmanship.
Authentication Indicators
The presence of the balanced scales hallmark with the chess knight motif is the definitive indicator of authentic Christofle production.
Origin & Manufacturing
France, specifically manufactured in the Yainville factory or historic Paris workshops.
Era & Period
Modern production of a Second Empire/Victorian era design (introduced 1862).
Age Estimate
Late 20th century to contemporary, based on the crispness of the modern square manufacturer stamps.
Cultural Significance
Spatours represents the height of 19th-century French bourgeois dining etiquette and remains a staple of high-end gastronomy.
Condition Notes
Very Good. Visible surface micro-scratching common with silver plate; light tarnish; no 'bleeding' of base metal visible.
Value Estimate
$40 - $120 USD per piece depending on specific item type (serving pieces vs. standard place settings).
Care & Maintenance
Clean with specialized silver cream; avoid dishwashers as the heat and chemicals can cause the plating to peel over decades.
Similar Pieces
Christofle 'Fidélio' (simpler) or Ercuis 'Lauriers'. Differs from Sterling versions by the absence of the Minerva head hallmark.
Interesting Facts
Christofle famously provided the silver service for the Empress Eugénie and the legendary Orient Express.