Large 19th Century French Gilt Bronze & Cut Crystal Centerpiece by Christofle Et Cie

Details

Description

Large 19th Century French Gilt Bronze & Cut Crystal Centerpiece by Christofle Et Cie

A three-tiered centerpiece made of gilt … Read more Large 19th Century French Gilt Bronze & Cut Crystal Centerpiece by Christofle Et Cie

A three-tiered centerpiece made of gilt bronze and cut crystal. It is a highly decorative piece from the 19th century, produced in France. The base features two finely sculpted figures that appear to be mermaids or mythological sea creatures, which support the rest of the stand. The central stem holds two large, shallow bowls made of cut crystal and a tall, slender vase at the very top, also made of cut crystal, which is likely for a floral arrangement. Such pieces were used as a surtout de table (table centerpiece) for serving fruits or sweets during formal dinners.

Christofle is a name practically synonymous with elegant French silverware. Founded by Charles Christofle in 1830, the company became famous for its groundbreaking invention of electrolytic silver-plating. See less