Pearl Adornment for the Table – Perles by Christofle
Simple, sensual, rare – pearls have long been a symbol of classical elegance and refinement, in the jewellery box as much as on the beautifully laid table. The renowned Parisian silversmith Christofle translates this timeless motif into a delicate half-relief on silver cutlery and tableware in the heritage "Perles" collection, inspired by the Louis XVI style. Whether for an intimate candlelit dinner or a grand wedding celebration, discover the feminine grace and quiet sophistication of an icon of the French Arts de la Table.
A Pearl of Table Culture – Silver Cutlery in the Louis XVI Style
Some things never fade. In the first half of the 18th century, the style of the French royal court was still deeply rooted in the late expressions of the Baroque. As the century progressed, however, a growing desire emerged for the clear, symmetrical forms of Greek antiquity and the Italian Renaissance. Shaped in no small part by the tastes of Queen Marie Antoinette, the Louis XVI style marked the dawn of Classicism in France in the 1760s. Subtle ornamentation, focused on rhythm and structure, replaced the sweeping curves of the Rococo. One motif, above all, came to embody the new era: the delicate pearl band.
More than a century later, during the Second Empire of Emperor Napoleon III, Empress Eugénie revived the pearl motif and returned it to fashion. At the same time, the young House of Christofle began to incorporate the pearl into its own design language. In 1876, the Perles collection was created as a loving homage to the Louis XVI style. Ever since, this timeless silver collection has stood as a pure expression of élégance à la française, blending effortlessly into interiors ranging from classical to contemporary.
Restrained as the pearl décor may appear, its creation is anything but ordinary. The flawless curves of the finely modelled half-reliefs bear witness to the centuries-old mastery of Christofle. Even the tools used for shaping are polished for up to 16 hours, until the smallest imperfection has been eliminated. This uncompromising pursuit of perfection lends the "Perles" collection its quiet radiance – an expression of the highest silversmithing artistry, created for the pleasure of sharing.
A Legacy of Elegance – Perles Silver Cutlery and Tableware
At the heart of the collection are the silver-plated Perles cutlery and the Perles 2 cutlery in stainless steel. Like a fine necklace, the characteristic pearl band traces the contours of the slender handles. The extensive range includes table, menu, dessert and fish cutlery, as well as steak knives, cheese knives, and a wide selection of serving and carving pieces. Suitable for everyday use as well as special occasions, the "Perles" cutlery completes the table with a timeless style one never tires of.
For the art of refined hospitality, the collection also offers a curated selection of silver table accessories. Candle jewels, knife rests, place card holders, and napkin rings bring harmony and balance to the table, revealing their warm, classical lustre especially at weddings, anniversaries, and formal dinners. Another highlight is the range of silver-plated picture frames, which capture cherished memories with understated grace and make particularly thoughtful gifts.
For a fully realised Christofle aesthetic, "Perles" pairs effortlessly with other collections from the House – from the clear elegance of Albi, to the contemporary softness of Babylone, and the striking curves of Vertigo. Create distinctive tablescapes with your personal Christofle favourites and celebrate the art of enjoying life.
