CHRISTOFLE - "EMPIRE" Model (GRATEBOESSE). - Lot 74

CHRISTOFLE - "EMPIRE" Model (GRATEBOESSE). Silver plated salad serving set (2 pieces). Each piece features a neoclassical design of ribbons, foliage, palmettes, water leaves, fillets, and pine cones. The backs of the spoons form a diamond shape embellished with scrolls and small flowers; the interior of the diamonds features the “gratteboessé” finish. Rounded, ribbed spoon/fork. Hallmarks of the silversmith’s workshop: (“CC” and scales), used between 1844 and 1935. Signatures in full: “CHRISTOFLE.” L. 12.5 cm. Signs of wear (small chips). Produced over a period of about 5 years, between 1908 and 1913, this is a rare model in the company’s production. The technique known as “gratteboessé” was intended to create a matte finish within each diamond. However, this model did not achieve the expected success and was therefore replaced by the “Malmaison” model (which is still produced today).