19th Century, French Spiral-Cut Mercury Glass Newel Post Finial With Bronze Base

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A French mercury glass newel post finial with an affixed bronze base, late nineteenth century. The egg-shaped glass body rises … Read more A French mercury glass newel post finial with an affixed bronze base, late nineteenth century. The egg-shaped glass body rises to a pointed crown, its rounded silhouette enriched by sweeping spiral cuts. Conceived as the ornamental termination of a staircase newel, the piece combines reflective glass with a substantial architectural mounting.

Broad mirrored surfaces alternate with elongated cut facets that curve around the body and converge at the summit. This flowing arrangement catches light from multiple directions, emphasizing the depth of the mercury glass and lending movement to the otherwise symmetrical form.

The affixed bronze base takes the form of a short column with raised ring moldings and a spreading lower profile, presented above a rounded dark wooden foot. Its warm metallic tones complement the cool silvered glass, while the stepped contours provide a balanced foundation for the prominent finial.

Measurements: 10" high × 4.75" wide; base 3" acros See less