Coffee pot - French Empire Style Silver-Plated Coffee Pot by Manufacture de l'Alfenide (Christofle) - c. 1900 - Silverplated

An elegant and highly decorative French antique silver-plated coffee pot (or teapot) crafted in the majestic Empire style, dating back to the late 19th or early 20th century (circa 1900).
This sophisticated piece features exceptional neoclassical and zoomorphic details:
• Spout: Beautifully sculpted in the shape of a realistic eagle/griffin head with fine feather detailing.
• Feet: Four sturdy, organic legs realistically modeled as lion paws, surmounted by detailed acanthus leaf/palmette mounts.
• Handle: A beautifully curved, geometric wooden handle fastened with silvered floral rosettes, providing excellent insulation and a striking material contrast.
• Lid: Fitted with an elegant pinecone finial, a classic motif of the Empire period.
Hallmarks & Authenticity:
The underside of the base bears two distinct, authentic manufacturer hallmarks:
1. The 'Alfenide' Square Mark: Featuring stars inside a square cartouche, the official mark of the Manufacture de l'Alfenide, a renowned branch owned and operated by the prestigious house of Christofle. The square shape officially designates French high-quality silver-plating (métal argenté).
2. The Numerical Plating Grade: Stamped with the number "20", indicating the specific quantity of pure silver used in the electroplating process to guarantee a thick, durable, and luxurious finish.