Christofle - Manufacture de l'Alfénide - Dinner service - Serviteur de Table - Silverplated, Glass - with original insert trays

Beautiful and rare Art Nouveau 'Serviteur de Table' with two custom-made glass insert bowls. Made in France by the famed Manufacture de l'Alfénide, at the time a prestigious subsidiary of the world-renowned Maison Christofle.

The splendid object belongs to the early production that laid the foundation for Christofle's iconic Orfèvrerie Gallia line.

Period: circa 1900–1908.

This antique 'surtout de table' (jam or double spice holder) is a paradigmatic example of French Art Nouveau. The frame is characterized by an elegant, organically shaped handle in the center that flows smoothly into the two holders. The corners of the frame are decorated with refined, relief-engraved floral motifs of leaves and fruits.

Fully complete
What makes this specimen unique and museum-worthy is that it is fully complete with the original glass insert bowls. Since this fragile glassware has, over the past 125 years, fallen victim to most of the remaining pieces or has been replaced, a specimen in this relatively intact, original condition is an absolute rarity.

Hallmarks (Poinçons):
The silver frame is on the underside bearing two clear and authentic hallmarks (see photos):
1. The official French factory mark of Alfénide: a goat's head (tête de bouc) in a diamond, set in a square cartouche. This guarantees the high quality of the silvered Alfénide white metal.
2. The specific shield-shaped master mark associated with Christofle's early Gallia production.

Dimensions & Weight:
* Length: 28 cm
* Width: 19 cm
* Height: 14 cm
* Total weight: 860 g

Condition:
* Silver frame: In fine antique condition. The silvering remains beautifully bright and shows little wear. Light, normal signs of aging (superficial scratches) for its age.
* Glass inserts: The two original, cast glass insert bowls are completely free of cracks or restorations and fit perfectly to the frame. There are two small, minimal chips (flakes) at the edges of the glass. These are inherent to use and are hardly noticeable when the bowls are placed in the frame (see detail photos).
Photos are part of the description.

An exceptionally elegant collectible from one of the world's most renowned silver houses, a valuable centerpiece for the connoisseur.