These vases are exceptional pieces of French 19th century luxury design. There is a striking and beautiful contrast created between the rich, blue lapis lazuli veneer (a later addition) and the gilt bronze mounts.
The lapis lazuli vases are topped by domed lapis lids, decorated with gilt bronze banding and acorn finials. The broad upper bodies of the vases are fitted with gilt bronze handles. These handles are cast as dragons, with ferocious open-mouthed expressions. Near their bases, the vase bodies curve inwards, then back out in bulbous shapes.
These lapis vases are mounted onto splayed gilt bronze feet, which are fluted and have foliate tops. They stand on square lapis plinths...
Category
Late 19th Century French Neoclassical Antique Lapis Lazuli Vases
MaterialsLapis Lazuli, Ormolu, Bronze