Christofle, Gravy Boat, Silver-Plated
Christofle is a French luxury silverware brand with a rich history of producing high-quality silverplating since 1830. Its founder, Charles Christofle, was a skilled goldsmith who developed a revolutionary electroplating technique for silver in the mid-19th century. This process involved coating a base metal, such as copper or brass, with a thin layer of silver through electrolysis. The resulting silverplated objects had the beauty and luster of solid silver, but were much more affordable. By the turn of the 20th century, Christofle had become one of the most prestigious silverware manufacturers in the world. The sauce boat in question, bearing the Christofle hallmarks and numbered 79375, is a stunning example of the brand's craftsmanship from this era. The goldsmith hallmarks attest to the quality and authenticity of the piece. The sauce boat is designed in a sleek, Art Deco style that was popular in the early 20th century. Its smooth, curving lines and minimalist decoration reflect the modernist aesthetic that was emerging at the time. The excellent condition of the sauce boat suggests that it was well-cared for and cherished by its previous owners. The dimensions of the sauce boat are impressive, standing at 12.5 cm high, 24 cm in length, and 12 cm in width. Its weight of 480 g indicates that it is a substantial piece that is meant to be displayed and admired. Overall, this sauce boat is a testament to the skill and artistry of Christofle's silverplaters, who continue to produce some of the most beautiful and sought-after silverware in the world.