Italian Silver-Mounted Hardstone Centerpiece

This fascinating Charles X-period “cathedral” flacon has the appearance of agate, but it is actually crafted of rare red hyalite glass. The sculpted vessel rests within a patinated a...

Crafted by the oldest and most respected crystal manufacturer in Europe and believed to have been exhibited at the 1889 Exposition Universelle in Paris, this incredible nef by Saint Louis Crystal is as exquisite as it is unique. The framework of the vessel is hand-wrought in exquisite doré bronze boasting chased details along the hull that resemble wood grain. Sumptuously etched Greek motifs surround the crystal bowl which serves as the body of the ship, while the mast suspends an etched crystal globe and a wind-swept doré bronze flag...

Silverplate Mirrored Centerpiece Ercuis 20th Century This extraordinary silverplated mirrored centerpiece showcases the refined artistry of Ercuis, one of France’s most celebrated s...

Rock Crystal and Gold Agnus Dei Late 16th, early 17th century Case made in Milan Agnus Dei in wax from the Vatican Among the most significant religious artifacts of the Renaissance, the Agnus Dei medallion exemplifies the height of Catholic devotional culture. Believed to hold sacramental blessings and even miraculous power, these sacred wax objects were crafted from the melted remains of the Paschal candle used in Rome and personally blessed by the Pope. Their rarity was compounded by their fragility—few survived intact, making them among the most coveted religious items of their time. This extraordinary example, dating from the late 16th to early 17th century, defied the odds of survival. Encased in its original rock crystal and gold setting, among the most luxurious materials available when it was made, the wax itself features subtle yet remarkably preserved imprints—an almost impossible feat given its delicate nature. It is the only known example outside of a museum, with possibly two others in institutional collections. Made for a patron of exceptional wealth, this late Renaissance masterpiece marries religious significance with extraordinary craftsmanship. The oval rock crystal frame encases the wax Agnus Dei, encircled by exquisite gold mounting with black enamel detailing and twisted gold cord. Rock crystal caryatids shaped as dog heads with gold collars transition into female busts that curve into scrolls, resting on teardrop elements adorned with vibrant enamel. Two elegant gold scrolls wrap around back-to-back dog muzzles at the top, crowned by an enamel-decorated knob and suspension ring—creating a devotional object of unparalleled artistic refinement. The fragile composition of Agnus Dei medallions meant that most were easily damaged—cracking, collecting dirt or crumbling over time. Their pristine whiteness held such sacred significance that in 1572, Pope Gregory XIII issued a Papal Bull...

This large and well modelled comport is of exceptionally heavy gauge, well-designed and offered by the well- known craftsman, Ugo Bellini of Firenze. Standing on a lobed octofoil ba...

This large and monumental 19th century English centerpiece is bronze covered in silver. The hand done details are finely crafted for an elegant and fabulous look.

This large Valle' & Gandini 800 sterling silver Rococo centerpiece exemplifies the Italian Rococo style with extraordinary attention to detail and elegance. The pierced rim enhances ...

An important and most impressive French 19th century Belle Époque Period black Belgian marble, ormolu and cloisonné signed centerpiece. The striking and large scale centerpiece is raised by four pierced ormolu scrolled feet each decorated with a warm blue and a black enamel fillet below the circular black Belgian marble base. The base is decorated with a highly detailed cloisonné band with foliate patterns. With cabochons at each side that are centered by two charming ormolu cherubs, each sitting with their legs crossed and reading a book. The black Belgian marble bowl is decorated with a sensational wide cloisonné band with impressive detail and rich vivid colors, with foliate patterns and ormolu fillets on a warm blue background. At each side is a richly chased handsome handle in the shape of a dog's head. The mottled inside of the bowl has a smooth finish. Signed Prosper Roussel...