émile Puiforcat - Large Wine Decanter In 950 Thousandths Sterling Silver And Cut Crystal,

Émile Puiforcat - important 950 thousandth solid silver and cut crystal wine decanter, bearded masks decoration, circa 1900

Important and spectacular wine decanter made by the prestigious Parisian house Émile Puiforcat, one of the greatest names in French silversmithing of the late XIXᵉ and early XXᵉ centuries. This remarkable ceremonial piece combines with great elegance a rich, finely chased 950 thousandth solid silver setting with a cut crystal body of exceptional craftsmanship.

The decoration, particularly architectural and sculptural, is inspired by the neo-Renaissance and neo-Louis XVI vocabulary then in vogue in the great Parisian goldsmiths' houses. The neck is adorned with an openwork gallery of repeating motifs, framed by friezes of laurel and pearls, while the spout and the opposite side of the neck are embellished with powerful bearded masks in high relief. These expressive faces, evocative of mythological figures or ancient river divinities, lend the ensemble a monumental and highly decorative presence.

The particularly refined handle features remarkable chasing and leafy scrolling work. The hinged lid, topped by a knotted laurel wreath grip, testifies to the very high level of finish typical of Puiforcat productions. The inside of the lid is entirely vermeiled, bringing further refinement to this high-quality piece.

The blown and cut crystal body adopts an elegant baluster shape with deep vertical flutes delicately curving inwards, creating a superb optical and luminous play. The crystal, entirely engraved and cut, rests on a deeply worked star-shaped base that captures the light admirably. The whole presents an extremely pure material, with no traces of acidity or glass disease, the crystal being in a remarkable state of preservation.

The combination of translucent crystal and richly chased silver produces a contrast of great sophistication, characteristic of luxury pieces destined for grand tables and prestigious services.

A particularly important and decorative work of silversmithing, perfectly illustrating Émile Puiforcat's exceptional expertise in the art of large table pieces.

Features:

• Smith : Émile Puiforcat
• Era: circa 1900
• Materials: 950 thousandths sterling silver and cut crystal
• Shape: fluted baluster
• Decor: bearded masks, laurel friezes, openwork gallery and foliate motifs
• Hinged lid with laurel wreath grip
• Remolished lid interior
• Cut, engraved and deeply fluted crystal
• Crystal in excellent condition, with no glass disease or traces of acidity
• High-quality Parisian craftsmanship
• Style: neo-Renaissance / eclectic Belle Époque
• Height: 29 cm
• Gross weight: 1,320 kg
• Very good condition