Christofle Spatours Pattern Silver Plate Dinner Fork
Flatware (Dinner Fork) · Christofle (Orfèvrerie Christofle), Paris, France. Founded in 1830 by Charles Christofle, the company is renowned for introducing electrolytic plating to France and remains the premier luxury silver brand in the world.
Pattern: Spatours. Introduced in 1862, this pattern is a definitive classic of the Maison Christofle collection. Its name is a portmanteau of 'spatule' (spatula) and 'contour' (outline), reflecting its sleek, border-driven aesthetic. It was refined in the late 19th/early 20th century to include the Louis XV style embellishments seen on the handle.
Type
Flatware (Dinner Fork)
Maker
Christofle (Orfèvrerie Christofle), Paris, France. Founded in 1830 by Charles Christofle, the company is renowned for introducing electrolytic plating to France and remains the premier luxury silver brand in the world.
Material
Silver Plate (EPNS/Gallia Metal base). High-quality French electroplate, known for a exceptionally thick silver layer (Christofle's Grade I plating) over a durable base metal alloy.
Dimensions
Approximately 20.5 cm (8 inches) in length. Standard dinner fork size. Estimated weight: 70-85 grams.
Description
This elegant dinner fork represents the pinnacle of French silversmithing by Christofle. The Spatours pattern is celebrated for its harmonious proportions and understated luxury. The handle's terminal is anchored by a delicate shell motif, while the stem is adorned with laurel wreaths—symbols of victory and prestige. It is a quintessential piece for a formal French 'art de la table' setting.
Key Features
Characteristic Christofle shell motif at the base, laurel leaf swags, and the iconic 'contour' line. The heavy weight and 'cold to the touch' feel of the thick silver plating are diagnostic signs of Christofle quality.
Material & Composition
Silver Plate (EPNS/Gallia Metal base). High-quality French electroplate, known for a exceptionally thick silver layer (Christofle's Grade I plating) over a durable base metal alloy.
Finish & Decoration
Polished mirror finish with Neo-Classical and Louis XV stylistic elements. The handle features a 'contour' thread border, a decorative shell (coquille) at the terminal, and laurel leaf swags. The transition from the handle to the tines (the shoulder) is smoothly fluted.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely marked on the back of the handle or neck with the 'OC' scales mark (Orfèvrerie Christofle) inside a square, often accompanied by the 'Christofle' name stamp and a numerical mark indicating the silver content used for the plating of the set.
Construction Details
Die-struck and drop-forged for high density and durability. The tines are precision-cut and finished. The plating is applied via electrolysis, ensuring a uniform and long-lasting silver coating.
Functional Features
Four-tine design with standard tiffing for dinner use. Ergonomic flared handle provides balance and weight in the hand. Designed for high-end formal dining.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid handle construction with a flared 'spatula' shape. The edges are chamfered with a thread border. The decoration is relief-molded during the forging process rather than hand-chased.
Craftsmanship Details
Despite being a production piece, the finishing quality is exceptional. The tines are perfectly tapered, and the transition between the decorative relief and the smooth fields is seamless, showing Christofle's superior die-cutting technology.
Authentication Indicators
Deeply struck manufacturer name, specific scale-logo hallmark, and the extremely high quality of the decorative molding. The weight should feel substantial, not hollow.
Origin & Manufacturing
France, specifically the Christofle factory in Yainville (Normandy) or formerly Paris. Built on the French tradition of 'L'Art de Vivre'.
Era & Period
The design is Second Empire/Louis XV Revival, though this specific piece's production likely dates from the mid-20th century to the present day as the pattern remains a staple of the brand.
Age Estimate
Modern Era, likely c. 1960-2000. While the pattern is 19th-century, the crispness of the molding and the surface quality suggest mid-to-late 20th-century production.
Cultural Significance
Christofle silver is a symbol of French national pride and luxury. This piece reflects the 19th-century French desire to revive the grandeur of the Bourbon monarchy styles for the modern bourgeois table.
Condition Notes
Very Good condition. Shows light surface 'patina' scratches consistent with periodic use and cleaning. Notable tarnish (sulfide oxidation) present in the recessed areas of the decoration and along the handle, which would easily polish away. No signs of 'bleeding' (base metal showing through).
Value Estimate
$40 - $75 USD per individual fork on the secondary market. A full 5-piece place setting in this pattern typically retails for $400-$500 new.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a high-quality cream like Wright's Silver Cream or Christofle's own polishing cloth. Never use abrasive sponges or 'dip' cleaners which can strip the silver layer over time. Hand drying is recommended to prevent water spots.
Similar Pieces
Ercuis 'Lauriers' (similar leaf motif) or Puiforcat 'Cardinal'. Christofle's own 'Chinon' pattern is similar but lacks the shell and leaf embellishments.
Interesting Facts
The Spatours pattern was famously used aboard the grand ocean liner 'Le Normandie' and is a favorite in French embassies and five-star hotels globally.