Napoleon III Bronze Cassolettes, 19th Century, Set of 2

Details

Description

Rare pair of patinated bronze and black marble cassolettes – Winged griffins – Napoleon III period, 19th century

An elegant … Read more Rare pair of patinated bronze and black marble cassolettes – Winged griffins – Napoleon III period, 19th century

An elegant pair of patinated bronze cassolettes, resting on simple polished black marble bases, made during the second half of the 19th century, under the Second Empire. (Circa 1850)

Their refined decoration is enlivened by two stylized winged griffins forming the handles, inspired by classical antiquity.

The foliate mascarons (acanthus leaves), the beaded friezes, and the moldings reflect the enthusiasm for the Neo-Greek and Neo-Renaissance styles, characteristic of French decorative arts of this period. The quality of the casting, the fineness of the chasing, the beautiful antique patina, the harmonious proportions, the particularly elegant handles, the restrained ornamentation, and the original joinery reveal meticulous craftsmanship, attributable to a fine French workshop.

The cassolettes retain traces of past use, suggesting they may have occasionally held incense or perfumed resins, while remaining, above all, remarkable decorative objects.

with their balanced lines, the nobility of their materials, and the expressive presence of their griffins, these cassolettes will naturally find their place in a high-end interior on a mantelpiece, console table, bookcase, or within a cabinet of curiosities.

Uncommon for their winged griffin decoration and the quality of their execution, these cassolettes elegantly illustrate the Second Empire's taste for references to Antiquity and distinctive ornamental bronzes.

Dimensions:
Height: 13 cm
Diameter of the basin (excluding the animals): 12.5 cm
Total width (from griffin to griffin): 17.5 cm

Condition:
Very good condition with some minor signs of use and wear, consistent with its age and use.
Beautiful antique patina. See less