Large Bronze Ceremonial Pot

François Moreau, France, 17th century. Large bronze ceremonial pot with cylindrical structure resting on three feet shaped like a ferine paw with claws holding a sphere; small side handles for attaching the handle (missing) shaped like a mermaid, body entirely decorated. On the upper register the inscription: EN 1687 CESTE MARMITE APARTIEN A F.MOREAV ET MARIE REMY. The large central band is adorned with a frieze composed of winged cupids holding large festoons, surmounted by two cartouches: on one side an oval with a bell in the centre surrounded by an inscription referring to the smelter (FRANÇOIS MOREAV MA FAIT), supported by two dolphins and crowned by plant motifs; on the other side a fleur-de-lis of France between two dolphins holding a crown