Christofle Silver-Plated Footed Bowl or Cachepot (Model 9193)
Hollowware (Cachepot / Footed Centerpiece) · Christofle, France. Founded in 1830 by Charles Christofle, the company became the premier provider of silverware to the French royalty and high society, specializing in high-quality electroplating (Goldsmith House).
Pattern: Reference Number 9193; typically part of the Gallia or commercial hollowware lines, often featuring Empire or Louis XV revival elements.
Type
Hollowware (Cachepot / Footed Centerpiece)
Maker
Christofle, France. Founded in 1830 by Charles Christofle, the company became the premier provider of silverware to the French royalty and high society, specializing in high-quality electroplating (Goldsmith House).
Material
Argent Électroplaqué (Silver-plated base metal, typically nickel silver or brass). The base metal is visible in areas of heavy wear/excessive tarnish.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter of 15-20cm (6-8 inches); weight estimated at 400-600 grams. Size is consistent with a small centerpiece or planter cachepot.
Description
An elegant example of 19th-century French silver-plated hollowware, this Christofle piece showcases the brand's mastery of the electroplating process. The globular form is elevated by intricate, cast foliate feet that impart a sense of grandeur characteristic of the Napoleon III period. Though currently heavily tarnished, the silhouette and production quality represent the luxury goods produced during the golden age of French dining culture.
Key Features
Production number 9193; high-relief cast ornamental feet; Christofle-specific numerical stamping style; globular body with rolled rim.
Material & Composition
Argent Électroplaqué (Silver-plated base metal, typically nickel silver or brass). The base metal is visible in areas of heavy wear/excessive tarnish.
Finish & Decoration
Originally mirror-polished silver plate, currently displaying heavy oxidation and sulfide deposit tarnish. The piece features ornate cast feet with acanthus leaf or shell-style scroll motifs (Louis XV style).
Hallmarks & Stamps
The base is stamped with '9193', which is a Christofle production/model number. While the maker's mark (scales/OC) is obscured by tarnish, the typography of the numerals is consistent with mid-to-late 19th-century Christofle stampings.
Construction Details
Spun or raised body with separately cast and silver-soldered decorative feet. The construction shows high-quality Victorian industrial joinery.
Functional Features
Planar base for stability with elevated feet to protect table surfaces from heat or condensation; primarily intended as a decorative vessel or planter.
Handle & Grip Details
This specific piece lacks handles, utilizing the ornate tripod/quadruped feet as the primary structural grip and support system.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial craftsmanship. The seamless join between the cast feet and the spun body indicates a high level of technical competency typical of the Christofle workshop.
Authentication Indicators
The numerical stamp '9193' is characteristic of Christofle's internal inventory systems. The patina and oxidation patterns are consistent with authentic old electroplate rather than modern cast reproductions.
Origin & Manufacturing
Paris, France. Manufactured in the Christofle factory using their patented electroplating process which revolutionized the silver industry by making luxury items accessible to the bourgeoisie.
Era & Period
Second Empire / Napoleon III Era (c. 1852-1870). The design reflects the eclectic revivalism of the mid-to-late 19th century in France.
Age Estimate
Circa 1860-1890. Dating is based on the production number '9193' and the specific casting style of the ornamental feet.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of luxury in the 19th century, where the middle class could own pieces that mimicked the solid silver services of the aristocracy.
Condition Notes
Fair to Poor. Heavy, uneven tarnish covers 90% of the surface. Visible scratches on the base. There is likely 'bleeding' where the silver plate has worn thin to reveal the base metal underneath.
Value Estimate
$75 - $150 USD in current condition; potentially $250+ if professionally cleaned and if the silver plating remains intact underneath the oxidation.
Care & Maintenance
Requires deep cleaning with a high-quality silver foam (like Hagerty) or cream. Avoid abrasive dips. Once cleaned, store in acid-free tissue or a Pacific Silvercloth bag to prevent rapid re-tarnishing.
Similar Pieces
Ercuis silver-plated bowls or Elkington & Co. (UK) plated hollowware. Christofle is generally more desirable due to its historical association with French royalty.
Interesting Facts
Christofle was awarded the title of 'Purveyor to the Emperor' by Napoleon III. Their model numbers are highly sought after by researchers to track the evolution of French industrial design.