Pair Of Silver Carafes, France, 19th Century

Description
An elegant pair of French glass decanters, richly mounted in 950‰ sterling silver, bearing the French hallmark featuring the head of Minerva. The particular appeal of this set lies in the fact that both pieces have been preserved as a genuine pair, with matching decoration and proportions.

Each carafe features a clear, pear-shaped glass body, widely flared at the bottom and tapering toward the neck. The silver mount envelops the upper portion and extends into a long, openwork handle that is particularly intricately crafted. The decoration, inspired by historicist and Rococo styles, combines volutes, foliage, leaves, shells, and vine motifs rendered in relief.

The handles are the most striking element of the composition. They are adorned with classical female figures, depicted as nymphs holding and eating bunches of grapes. This Bacchic theme is directly linked to the carafes’ function and blends harmoniously with the grape clusters and vine leaves arranged on the mounts and lids. The dynamic design of the handles, ending in scrollwork, accentuates the sculptural character of the ensemble.

The spouts are fitted with hinged silver lids, also decorated with plant motifs and grapevines in relief. The set features particularly decorative silversmithing, with an alternation of polished, chiseled, and intentionally darkened surfaces that emphasizes the depth of the ornamentation.

Technique and Materials
Bodies made of transparent blown glass, complemented by substantial settings in 950‰ French sterling silver. Decor is cast, chiseled, and rendered in relief. Lids hinged on hinges and handles entirely worked with figurative decoration. French hallmark featuring the head of Minerva visible on the silver elements.

Date
France, second half of the 19th century. The Neo-Rocaille style, the naturalistic treatment of the ornamentation, and the presence of the Minerva hallmark are characteristic of 19th-century French historicist silverwork.

Condition
Very good condition. Both carafes are complete and undamaged. The glass elements show no major visible damage, and the silver mounts display a patina consistent with their age. The lids and their hinges are present.

Use and Purpose
These carafes were intended for serving wine or other beverages at the table. Their highly decorative nature, their elaborate figurative mountings, and above all the fact that they are preserved as a pair make them suitable for display today in a collection of French silverware as well as in a classical or eclectic interior.

Dimensions
height - 27.5 cm
depth - 17 cm
diameter - 13 cm