Pair of silvered bronze and cut-glass compotes by Christofle

This exquisite pair of compotes are by the renowned Parisian silverware firm Christofle. Founded in 1830 by the eponymous Charles Christofle, the manufactory is famed for introducing the techniques of electrolytic gilding and silver plating to 19^th century France. The firm continues to create impressive decorative and functional wares like this pair for the contemporary market.

The compotes comprise cut-glass tazza-like bowls atop silvered bronze bases. Of a scalloped shape, the fluted bowls are typical of the Rococo Revival style.

The glass bowls surmount cherubic silver-plated bases. Each base features a seated putto, who blows into a ceremonial blowing horn that expertly extends into the base of the glass dish. The cherubs are beautifully carved with lifelike detail, their lower halves draped with swathes of fabric. The rock-form four-footed bases on which the putti sit feature alternating hoof and paw feet, which are connected by applied grapevine decoration.

The underside of the bases are stamped with ‘CHRISTOFLE’, the manufactory seal, and the inventory number ‘2030530’.

Pairing beautiful cut glass with impressive, sculpted bases, these compotes highlight the exquisite silverware produced in France during the 19^th century.