Christofle & Cie

the design by Henri Godin and Samuel Waret
silvered and gilt metal

Overall very good condition consistent with age and gentle use. Very faint scattered surface scratches. One shallow dent near the shoulder, approximately 1 cm across, running horizontally. Presents very well overall.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

'Organised by the Union Centrale des Arts Decoratifs, Christofle exhibited, for the first time, pieces from the Polychromes collection at the 1880 Arts du Métal Exhibition in Paris. These silver or silver plated pieces in the Japonisme style are characterised by their partial or entirely hand hammered decorative backgrounds. The applied parts of the decoration were melted down separately in silver, brass or copper, brazed onto the piece, and enhanced with chased motifs. Gilding was then employed to emphasise the polychrome effect. These hand made pieces are a technical tour de force, their complex execution making them quite rare.

The idea for this technique finds its origin with two American silversmiths, Gorham and Tiffany, who were the first to apply decorations using different metals onto hand-hammered backgrounds. Although Gorham did not participate in the Universal Exhibition in 1878, Tiffany did, and it was through Tiffany's pieces at this exhibition that polychrome applied decorations on a hammered base became known in Europe.

The designs were created by Henri Godin (1846-1902) and Samuel Waret who were rewarded with a silver medal at the 1880 exhibition.'

Anne Gros
Head of Musée et des archives for Christofle

We would like to thanks Mrs Anne Gros, Head of the Musée et des Archives Christofle for her assistance with the cataloguing of this and the following lot.