Hanau, Jardinière And Above All In Solid Silver 800 Thousandths, Louis XVI Style Circa 1870

Hanau, Jardinière and Centrepiece in 800 Thousandths Solid Silver, Louis XVI Style Superb Louis XVI style jardinière in 800 thousandths solid silver, accompanied by its matching centrepiece, made by Hanau, a famous center of German silversmithing. This set is distinguished by the quality of its work in repoussé and applied silver, demonstrating exceptional expertise. The jardinière features an openwork belt richly decorated with garlands, coat-of-arms medallions and applied female figures (caryatids), inspired by the Louis XVI style. The finely chiseled side handles display a stylized plant decoration. It rests on elegantly sculpted claw feet. The interior bowl is in nickel silver, in perfect condition, without any alteration. The oval-shaped centrepiece is topped with a beveled mirror, framed by a finely chiseled solid silver border with scrolls and floral motifs. Some mercury alterations are to be noted on the edges of the mirror, testifying to its antiquity without detracting from its elegance. Characteristics: Origin: Hanau (Germany). Period: Late 19th century. Style: Louis XVI. Material: Solid silver 800 thousandths (hallmark). Technique: Embossed and applied silver work. Decoration: Openwork belt with garlands, coat-of-arms medallions and caryatids. Interior tray: Silver-plated nickel, perfect condition. Centrepiece: Beveled mirror with chased silver frame, slight mercury alterations on the edges. Dimensions: Jardinière: 41 cm long, 22 cm wide, 11 cm high. Centrepiece: 58 cm long, 44 cm wide, 5 cm high. Weight: Jardinière mount: 805 g (solid silver). Centrepiece mount: 1.5 kg (solid silver). This exceptional set perfectly illustrates the Louis XVI style, with its refined decoration and the quality of its silver work. Ideal for a prestigious reception table or a collection of quality silverware.