A Rare 1859 Elkington Silvered Bronze Victorian "Trophy" Centerpiece

Mathurin Moreau (French, 1822-1912) A Monumental French Bronze and Crystal Figural Centerpiece Introducing an extraordinary and monumental Fre...

An exquisite Napoleon III French ormolu figural basket centerpiece, Circa 1880, Attributed to Alfred Emmanuel Louis Beurdeley. Depicting four mercury-gilded bronze ormolu cherubs holding a basket, the base with trophies and scrolling. This monumental centerpiece...

1876 Centennial Exhibition, J & L. Lobmeyr Exceptional Ormolu Mounted Bohemian Ruby Glass Centerpiece This exceptional Bohemian ruby red glass centerpiece, by he renowned Viennese glass manufacturer J. & L. Lobmeyr, exemplifies the firm's mastery in combining classical aesthetics with innovative design. Created circa 1876, this piece was showcased at the Centennial International Exhibition in Philadelphia, reflecting the era's fascination with classical motifs and superior craftsmanship. The centerpiece adopts a form inspired by admired Greek patterns, characterized by its elegant proportions and harmonious contours. The exquisite ormolu handles, reminiscent of Urbino vase designs, are artfully crafted as serpents with their heads pressed flat upon the rim in a vigilant posture, while their sinuous bodies attach gracefully to the bowl, culminating in finely detailed finials. This serpentine motif not only enhances the visual allure but also imbues the piece with symbolic significance, as snakes often represent protection and eternal life in classical iconography.​ Encircling the vessel is an expansive frieze featuring intricate scrollwork and figural representations. At the center of this decorative band stands a winged female figure, flanked by conventionally stylized lions, a composition that evokes themes of strength and guardianship prevalent in ancient art. The engraving is executed with extraordinary precision, with each leaf and tendril rendered in minute detail, showcasing the unparalleled skill of the artisans. The Centennial International Exhibition of 1876 in Philadelphia was a seminal event, marking the first World's Fair held in the United States. It celebrated the nation's centennial and served as a global stage for artistic and industrial achievements. J. & L. Lobmeyr's participation in this exhibition underscored their commitment to excellence and innovation in glassmaking. Pieces such as this centerpiece would have captivated audiences with their blend of historical inspiration and contemporary artistry, reflecting the 19th-century penchant for reviving classical forms through modern techniques. Founded in 1823 by Josef Lobmeyr, the company quickly established itself as a purveyor of fine glassware, earning the distinction of becoming the Imperial Court Supplier. Under the stewardship of Josef's sons, Josef and Ludwig, the firm expanded its artistic horizons, collaborating with eminent designers and embracing diverse stylistic influences, including Islamic and Persian motifs. Their innovative approach and dedication to quality garnered international acclaim, with their works featured in prestigious institutions such as the Museum of Modern Art in New York, and most importantly The Corning Museum of Glass. This Bohemian ruby red glass centerpiece with ormolu...

An Exquisite and Rare French Louis XVI Style Ormolu-Mounted Bloodstone Inkwell, circa 1875. A truly exceptional and jewel like quality inkwell encrier, made with the finest ormolu, mounted on bloodstone. A true collectors and one of a kind piece. Revival of the ancient régime in the late 19th century was paramount to the French furniture and bronze casting firms of the Belle Epoque. Imitation in the highest regard and replication of those tastes and styles was prevalent throughout the Paris Faubourg, where the most talented bronziers and ébénistes established their workshops. The present inkwell encrier recalls the late 18th century's obsession with hardstones - a taste expounded above all by the duc d'Aumont and, subsequently Marie-Antoinette. Such hardstone-mounted pieces, reminiscent of Renaissance schatzkammer objects, enjoyed a revived popularity at the end of the 18th century through the impetus of both the marchands-mercier and, more importantly, the hôtel des Menus-Plaisirs, where the duc d'Aumont himself established a workshop in 1770 specializing in the cutting and polishing of precious hardstones. This exceptional inkwell encrier, sumptuously-mounted with finely chased gilt-bronzes, incorporates a highly-prized material such as bloodstone. Sometimes called the Sunstone, the meaning of Bloodstone comes entangled in fascinating history. The Ancient Greeks held the Bloodstone as a gem with glorious powers. They referred to it as Heliotrope, which directly translates to Sunstone. It was believed to have heavenly healing powers gifted by the gods and most certainly when it came to healing all things related to the blood. Even as we move forward into the Middle Ages, the Bloodstone takes another mystical story under its wing. It was believed to be formed from Christ's blood. It was said that during the Crucifixion, a few red spots of his blood dripped...