A show stopping French Louis XV Revival centrepiece of exceptional sculptural presence, combining a richly cast gilt bronze base with a heavy scalloped crystal bowl of remarkable clarity and weight. Executed in the exuberant Rococo taste popular during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the piece is defined by its lavish scrolling acanthus ornament, flowing asymmetrical curves, and finely modelled foliate forms that rise organically from the tripod base.
The gilt bronze mount displays a depth and refinement characteristic of high-quality decorative metalwork of the period, with beautifully aged gilding and subtle patination settled into the recesses over time. Delicate chased details animate the curling leaves and scrolls, while the substantial weight and crisp casting lend the object an unmistakable sense of permanence and craftsmanship.
Above rests an elegant crystal bowl with radiating lobed panels and a cut starburst underside, catching and refracting light beautifully. The bowl detaches from the mount, a construction typical of fine mounted centrepieces produced for formal dining interiors and salon decoration during the Belle Époque period.
Both functional and highly decorative, the piece would have originally served as an opulent dining table centrepiece for fruit, flowers, or confectionery. It is an antique that remains incredibly beautiful, stylistic, and functional - a rare and atmospheric object that embodies the theatrical luxury of French Rococo revival design.
Condition: Very good antique condition with age-appropriate wear to the gilding and minor surface patination consistent with age. Bowl has some small chips to the tip of the scalloped edges.
Crystal bowl removable from base.
No maker’s mark located.
Origin: French
Production Period: Late 19th to early 20th Century.
A show stopping French Louis XV Revival centrepiece of exceptional sculptural presence, combining a richly cast gilt bronze base with a heavy scalloped crystal bowl of remarkable clarity and weight. Executed in the exuberant Rococo taste popular during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the piece is defined by its lavish scrolling acanthus ornament, flowing asymmetrical curves, and finely modelled foliate forms that rise organically from the tripod base.
The gilt bronze mount displays a depth and refinement characteristic of high-quality decorative metalwork of the period, with beautifully aged gilding and subtle patination settled into the recesses over time. Delicate chased details animate the curling leaves and scrolls, while the substantial weight and crisp casting lend the object an unmistakable sense of permanence and craftsmanship.
Above rests an elegant crystal bowl with radiating lobed panels and a cut starburst underside, catching and refracting light beautifully. The bowl detaches from the mount, a construction typical of fine mounted centrepieces produced for formal dining interiors and salon decoration during the Belle Époque period.
Both functional and highly decorative, the piece would have originally served as an opulent dining table centrepiece for fruit, flowers, or confectionery. It is an antique that remains incredibly beautiful, stylistic, and functional - a rare and atmospheric object that embodies the theatrical luxury of French Rococo revival design.
Condition: Very good antique condition with age-appropriate wear to the gilding and minor surface patination consistent with age. Bowl has some small chips to the tip of the scalloped edges.
Crystal bowl removable from base.
No maker’s mark located.
Origin: French
Production Period: Late 19th to early 20th Century.