Pair of large sculptural centrepiece bowls by Christofle

These finely made centrepiece dishes combine form and function, with the cut-glass bowls resting inside silvered bronze stands replete with putti and foliate decoration. The two pieces are identical in design. The glass bowl sports an elegant, fluted scallop design, with a waved rim.

The elaborate silvered bronze base stands on four branch-form feet. The support comprises a series of intertwining branches, from which hang ripe pomegranate fruits and large leaves. At each side, a putti rests on the extending branch, and each cherub looks tenderly at a bird resting on their outstretched hand. Further putti are applied to the front and back of the centrepieces, flanking a cartouche that encircles a monogrammed crest (likely the initials of the individual for whom the object was made). Both the figurative and floral elements are superbly cast and finished, with minute details clearly visible.

The underside of each piece is distinctly stamped ‘Christofle’, as well as with various workshop marks and an inventory number. Notable for introducing the techniques of silver plating and electrolytic gilding to 19^th century France, the Christofle firm has produced exquisite pieces of silverware for an elite clientele for nearly 200 years.

This truly charming pair exemplifies the skill of Christofle’s makers and would be a welcome addition to both a modern and a traditional interior.