Emperor Napoleon III: A French silver-plated tray, Christofle, Paris, circa 1854

rectangular with palmette rim and torsed handles, the surface decorated with the Imperial arms within a wreath of laurel and oak, flanked by the crowned cypher N, all on a bed of bees and surrounded by running ivy

Versailles 1993: Versailles et les Tables Royales, no. 362 (a tray of this model in the collection of the Musée Bouilhet-Christofle, Paris)

Henri Bouilhet, 150 Ans D'Orfèvrerie: Christofle, Silversmith since 1830, p. 121, fig. 3 (probably same example as above)

some wear to plating at back, otherwise good condition
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

In 1853 Emperor Napoleon III commissioned from Christofle a silver-plated table service for 100 persons; he later told Princess Metternich that silver items would just be melted down, plus it cost 6,000 francs rather than 5 million.  The order was to be finished by Christmas 1854.  The designs for the service were made by sculptor François Gilbert, then working for the Christofle.   Most of the service was lost when the Tuileries was burned in 1871, but a few pieces are in the Musee Bouilhet-Christofle, while the salvaged and restored Grand Surout is displayed at the Chateau de Compiègne.