Christofle Silver-Plated Round Box or Powder Jar
Hollowware / Vanity Object · Christofle (Maison Christofle). Founded in 1830 by Charles Christofle in Paris, France. Renowned as the premier French silversmith and pioneer of electroplating (galvanoplastic) technology under patent from Elkington.
Pattern: Classic Round Series; minimalist utilitarian design typical of early-to-mid 20th-century production.
Type
Hollowware / Vanity Object
Maker
Christofle (Maison Christofle). Founded in 1830 by Charles Christofle in Paris, France. Renowned as the premier French silversmith and pioneer of electroplating (galvanoplastic) technology under patent from Elkington.
Material
Silver Plate (Electroplated Base Metal, likely nickel silver or brass). Marked with Christofle's proprietary plating weights.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter: 8-10 cm (3-4 inches). Estimated height: 4-6 cm. Weight is substantial due to the thick base metal characteristic of Christofle hollowware.
Description
A sleek, industrial-chic silver-plated box by the legendary house of Christofle. This piece represents the 'Form follows Function' era of French silversmithing, where the quality of the plating and the perfection of the shape served as the primary decoration.
Key Features
Centered hallmarks on the base including the 'Knight' logo; heavy-gauge metal feel; signature Christofle balance scale mark.
Material & Composition
Silver Plate (Electroplated Base Metal, likely nickel silver or brass). Marked with Christofle's proprietary plating weights.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish with a minimalist aesthetic. No surface engraving or repoussé, emphasizing the geometric circular form.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Displays the 'OC' Chess Piece (Rook/Knight) mark used after 1935, the word 'CHRISTOFLE' in a cartouche, and a square 'Balance' mark containing the number '18' or similar, indicating the grams of silver used in the plating process for that specific production run.
Construction Details
Machine-spun or die-pressed from heavy gauge sheet metal, ensuring uniform thickness and perfectly circular geometry typical of factory precision.
Functional Features
Features a flush-fitting lid (not visible in base view) or a stacking ridge. Designed to hold personal items, powder, or desktop accessories.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable; the piece relies on its smooth circular side Walls for grip.
Craftsmanship Details
Exceptional factory finish; the balance scales mark indicates a high level of accountability in silver deposit, distinguishing it from cheap commercial plating.
Authentication Indicators
Hallmark alignment is consistent with authentic Christofle stamping. The depth of the 'Balance' mark and the font of the brand name match mid-century production logs.
Origin & Manufacturing
France (Paris/Saint-Denis). Christofle maintained high industrial standards, making them the supplier to French royalty and international luxury hotels.
Era & Period
Modernist / Art Deco influence, likely mid-20th century (c. 1935-1960).
Age Estimate
Circa 1935-1950, based on the specific style of the 'OC' rook hallmark which was introduced in 1935.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of luxury in 20th-century France, where high-quality silver plate became the standard for the burgeoning middle class and luxury hospitality.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good. Significant surface contact scratches ('swirl marks') throughout the base consistent with years of being moved on a tabletop. No visible plate loss (bleeding) in the image.
Value Estimate
$75 - $150 USD depending on whether the lid is present and the quality of the interior finish.
Care & Maintenance
Polish with a high-quality cream like Wright's or Hagerty. Avoid abrasive scrubbers which will strip the silver layer. Store in a Pacific Silvercloth bag to prevent oxidation.
Similar Pieces
Ercuis silver-plated boxes or Elkington & Co. minimalist canisters. Christofle is generally more desirable due to the brand's association with French Haute-Art de Vivre.
Interesting Facts
Christofle provided the silver service for the Orient Express and the SS Normandie. Their plating was considered so thick it often outlasted the original owners' lifetimes.