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Amagical setting at the Musée d’Arts décoratifs in Paris illustrates the history and splendor of the Christofle goldsmith house.
This almost 200-year-old factory has revolutionized the art of the table, thanks to its colors and its original decorations.
Created in 1830 by Charles Christofle (1805-1863) and Henri Bouilhet (1830- 1910), it was initially established in Paris then in Saint Denis and then in Normandy. More than 600 pieces of goldsmithing, jewelry, paintings and posters illustrate the success of Christofle in all its know-how.
The museum tour takes the visitor to the heart of the atmosphere of the factory with its silvering and gilding processes.
The masterpieces of the house from 1851 to 1925 stand as monumental pieces in the trends of the time, from Japonism to Art Deco.
On the second floor, a Christofle boutique displays the iconic collections of the House in magnificently set tables.
Goldsmith of kings and emperors for their receptions, Christofle saw its reputation grow within the flourishing bourgeoisie from 1860 with codes of refinement requi- ring the replacement of cutlery for each dish.
A store then opened in Paris at the Hanover Pavilion and, later, at the Palais Royal. For the Universal Exhibition of 1900, a Christofle stand represented the constant search for novelties linked to nature. A sumptuous tea service in the shape of squashes and pattypan squashes coexists gracefully and luxuriously with plates in bouquets of anemones and poppies, small vases in bunches of carrots and soup tureens in the shape of cabbages and celery.
Tea and Coffee Fountain from the “Squash” Christofle service
- Léon Mallet (active between 1874 and 1900) Sculptor around 1891- Silver-plated metal and ivory - BouIlhet Christofle Conservatory
© Christophe Dellière