Christofle
The history of Christofle began in 1830 when Charles Christofle (1805–1863) arrived in Paris from Lyon to join his brother-in-law’s jewellery business, Hugues Calmette & Cie. Specialising in goldsmithing and jewellery, the firm gained a reputation for quality craftsmanship. Upon Calmette’s death in 1837, Charles took full control of the business, renaming it Maison Christofle. Within a few years, he transformed it into one of the most successful and recognised silverware firms of the 19th century.
A turning point for Christofle came in 1841 when, with financial support from his sister Rosine Bouilhet, Charles secured the French rights to the revolutionary electroplating process developed by George and Richard Elkington in Birmingham. This innovation allowed Christofle to produce high-quality silver-plated objects at a lower cost than traditional solid silver, making fine tableware accessible to a broader clientele. The firm soon became known for its superior craftsmanship, employing esteemed designers and sculptors such as Mathurin Moreau (1821–1912) and Émile Reiber (1826–1893).
The first royal commission came in 1844 when King Louis-Philippe ordered new silverware for the royal palaces. This was followed by significant commissions under Emperor Napoleon III, including a grand gold-plated dinner service for the Élysée Palace and an opulent 1,200-piece service for the Tuileries Palace. Christofle's reputation for excellence led to commissions from international figures such as Sultan Abdülmecid I of the Ottoman Empire and Emperor Maximilian of Mexico.
To further promote the brand, Charles exhibited at major international fairs, including the Great Exhibition of 1851 in London and the Exposition Universelle of 1855 in Paris, where Christofle won prestigious awards. His innovative techniques and artistic collaborations cemented Christofle's status as a leader in silverware and decorative arts.
After Charles’s death in 1863, his nephew Henri Bouilhet took over the firm, later joined by his cousin Paul Christofle (1838–1907). Under their leadership, Christofle expanded into new markets, supplying embassies, ministries, theatres, luxury hotels such as the Ritz and Le Meurice, and the legendary Orient Express. The company adapted to changing tastes, producing pieces in the Second Empire, Rococo Revival, Orientalist, and Art Nouveau styles, often collaborating with leading artists like Albert-Ernest Carrier-Belleuse (1824–1887) and Alphonse Mucha (1860–1939).
The early 20th century brought financial challenges, exacerbated by World War I. The firm struggled until 1932, when Henri’s grandson, Tony Bouilhet, took the reins. His marriage to Carla Borletti, daughter of an Italian industrialist, provided fresh capital and new business opportunities. Tony revitalised the company, modernising production and embracing Art Deco and later mid-century designs. Notable collaborations included partnerships with Jean Cocteau, Gio Ponti, and Lino Sabattini, further solidifying Christofle’s reputation for innovation.
During the post-war period, Christofle continued to thrive, expanding its offerings to include stainless steel and luxury accessories. The firm remained a key supplier of silverware to fine restaurants, luxury hotels, and international airlines. By the late 20th century, Christofle introduced contemporary collections while maintaining its historic craftsmanship.
Today, Christofle remains a leading name in fine silverware and luxury tableware, blending tradition with modernity. Now under the leadership of Maurizio Borletti, Carla’s son, the firm continues to produce exceptional designs, upholding nearly two centuries of excellence in silversmithing.