Planter, Centerpiece In Silver-plated Metal, Art Nouveau Period

This stunning piece is a silver-plated metal jardinière or centerpiece (also known as a tabletop flowerpot) in the Art Nouveau / Jugendstil style, made in Austria around 1900–1905.
Specifically, it is the famous model produced by the prestigious Viennese manufacturer Argentor Werke (frequently listed in auction catalogs as the “Argentor Jardiniere”), although similar designs and variations on the same iconographic theme were also produced at the time by the renowned German manufacturer WMF.
The oval, embossed silver-plated metal structure features a highly decorative style typical of the Art Nouveau period. It is adorned with floral reliefs (featuring water lily and lotus flower motifs) and embellished with four three-dimensional female figures (nymphs or allegories of water) positioned along the edges and ends, which appear to interact with the central basin. Theobject retains its original removable brass (or gilded metal) inner basin, which served to protect the silver-plated outer structure from water and soil when it was used as a vase or planter. Approximately 57–58 cm in length and about 12 m in height.