Pair of Christofle "Albi" Candelabra – Three Lights – Silver-Plate
This pair of three-light candelabra in silver-plate belongs to the Albi collection by Christofle. Created in 1968 by the Christofle Studio, Albi is one of the House's most complete ranges; its restrained design, made of reeding and clean lines, follows the tradition of classic French candlesticks.
Each candelabrum stands on a round, stepped and moulded base. The baluster stem, punctuated by rings and swellings, is topped by a ball finial and carries three S-shaped arms arranged around it. Each arm ends in a cylindrical sconce set on a wide round drip pan with a moulded edge. With their mirror polish, the pieces rely on the shine of the silver-plating rather than on ornament.
The pieces are signed CHRISTOFLE FRANCE on the edge of the base and bear the hallmark with the chess knight and the letters OC, used by Christofle since 1935; as the Albi collection dates from 1968, they were made after that date. The underside is lined with felt. The marks are visible in the photographs.
Details:
• House: Christofle
• Collection: Albi
• Collection created: 1968, Christofle Studio
• Type: Pair of three-light candelabra
• Material: Silver-plate
• Period: after 1968
• Origin: France
• Height: 16 cm
• Width: 20 cm
• Sold as a pair
• Marking: Christofle France, knight and OC hallmark
Condition: pre-owned pieces in good overall condition; these are not new items. The silver-plating is intact, with no wear through to the base metal. The candelabra show light micro-scratches from use, consistent with their age. The felt of one of them has a small cross-shaped cut in the centre. Condition is shown in detail in the photographs.
Placed on either side of a centrepiece or a bouquet, they light a festive table with elegance and suit a classic service as well as a contemporary setting.