19th-Century French Empire Gilt Bronze & Cut Crystal Centerpiece Bowl – Twin Dolphin Base

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Description

A magnificent and rare 19th-century French Empire-style centerpiece, crafted from fine cut crystal and mounted on an elaborate gilt bronze … Read more A magnificent and rare 19th-century French Empire-style centerpiece, crafted from fine cut crystal and mounted on an elaborate gilt bronze dolphin base. The heavy crystal bowl features deep, faceted geometric cuts and is supported by a pair of exquisitely cast dolphins — a classical motif symbolizing power and protection in neoclassical and Napoleonic design.

The base is detailed with rich bronze finishing and mounted on a stepped and ebonized plinth with Empire-style trim. The workmanship throughout is of superior quality, consistent with high-end Parisian foundries or ateliers of the late 1800s. The overall form, with its elegant symmetry and mythological theme, reflects the grandeur of the Empire period and is suitable for both display and function.

This is a museum-quality object, comparable to similar pieces that have appeared in major auctions and galleries See less