Pair Of Brèche De Vendôme Marble And Mercury-gilt Bronze Cassolettes – Napoleon III Period

Pair of Brèche de Vendôme Marble and Mercury-Gilt Bronze Cassolettes – Napoleon III Period, Late 19th Century

A very elegant pair of covered cassolettes crafted from Brèche de Vendôme marble, also known as Brèche du Bénou. This distinctive marble displays a rich natural composition of burgundy, reddish-brown, ivory and grey-green tones.

Of baluster form, each cassolette is adorned with an opulent mount of finely chased and gilt bronze in the Louis XV style. Two boldly scrolling handles rise from the body, while an elaborate Rococo decoration of scrolls, acanthus leaves and foliate motifs gracefully envelops the marble.

The removable marble lids are framed by finely chased foliate mounts. Each cassolette is raised on a moulded socle above a shaped square marble base.

The bronze mounts retain their remarkable original mercury gilding, with a subtle interplay of matte and burnished surfaces that beautifully enhances the depth and refinement of the chasing.

The harmonious proportions, richness of the decoration and striking contrast between the polychrome marble and the warm gilding give this pair a particularly distinguished decorative presence.

French work from the Napoleon III period, late 19th century.

In excellent condition.

Dimensions of each cassolette:
Height: 46 cm (18.1 in)
Width: 18 cm (7.1 in)
Depth: 18 cm (7.1 in)