Cut-Crystal Centerpiece Attributed to Baccarat, France, Circa 1870

Exceptional centerpiece in silvered and gilded bronze, composed of a naiad riding a dolphin, supporting a chiseled shell decorated with reeds, adorned with the head of a river god on its bow and on which a winged love blows in a conch. The whole rests on a pedestal decorated with dolphin heads and cut-out leathers, ending with a porphyry base with molded steps. Historical and artistic context Centers and naves of tables are attested in France from the Middle Ages in order to present spices and other condiments brought from distant lands around the Mediterranean or from the trade of the Silk Roads. The importance of their presence on prestigious tables will be confirmed throughout the decorative arts, evolving during the 19th century in centerpieces, becoming a central element of decoration. Here we find a true virtuosity in the composition and representation of the human figure which is reminiscent of the greatest artists of the Italian Renaissance. Indeed, the fluidity of the lines of the naiad can be compared to the nymph of Fontainebleau by Benvenuto Cellini preserved at the Louvre museum and dated 1545, while the naturalist representation of the marine setting refers to the work of Wenzel Jamnitzer...

Magnificent vessel shaped chandelier in gilded bronze and engraved crystal attributed to Baccarat, suspended by four articulated chains. A ceiling pendant decorated with prisms and a...

Pair of baluster shaped vases attributed to Baccarat, made in fine cut-crystal, all-over decorated with star and diamond motifs. Mounted at the mouth with a large sterling silver ring...

Rich landscape in cloisonné enamel on blue and brown background imitating Aventurine stone, attributed to L.C. Sevin and F. Barbedienne. The decor represents a river surrounded by wi...

Beautifully hand crafted baccarat crystal decorative centerpiece bowl. The piece is in excellent condition. Maker's mark etched underneath. Minor shelves wear. The centerpiece measur...

A wonderful large French gilt bronze paw foot and diamond cut crystal oval centerpiece in the manner of Baccarat.

A wonderful French Baccarat style diamond cut crystal ormolu bronze lion paw large oval centerpiece Dimensions: H 5.25" x D 18.5".

A wonderful french dore bronze & cut crystal oval basket centerpiece with pierced open work handle resting on four legs. In the manner of Baccarat.