The sterling silver standard knife in the Malmaison pattern has a steel blade to better resist wear and tear and to increase quality of slice. One of Christofle's most historic patterns, Malmaison typifies the Empire style, with its frieze of delicate palm and lotus leaves and symmetrical design. The name is a nod to the Chateau de la Malmaison, a favored Parisian residence of Napoleon Bonaparte and Empress Josephine.