Large Bronze Centerpiece From The Empire Period, Attributed To Thomire. 71 Cm.
Artist: Pierre Philippe Thomire, Attribué à
A magnificent and imposing centerpiece attributed to Pierre-Philippe Thomire, crafted in gilded bronze and finely chiseled, resting on four lion’s-paw feet. Oval in shape, it features a fully openwork gallery with motifs arranged in a regular alternation: long water leaves centered on bases and scroll-like spears. These spears connect the base to the upper frieze, creating the openwork effect of the gallery and supporting the structure. The entire gallery rests on a solid bronze plinth, simple and smooth.
Four substantial lion-shaped legs, held in place by a broad palmette framed by two small rosettes, support the centerpiece.
The back is fitted with a mercury mirror.
In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, at grand dinners among high society, the table’s finery was just as important as the food itself. Thus, to enhance this decorum, the mirrored centerpiece served as a showpiece. It was always placed in the center of the table.
The mirror was not merely decorative; in an era when lighting came from candles, it multiplied the glow of the flames, diffusing a sparkling light, making the dining room appear larger, and making the guests’ jewelry sparkle.
Torches, candelabras, or girandoles were placed directly on it.
The mirrored tray also served as a base for other prestigious pieces of silverware or tableware, such as flower bowls or small dishes (often made of Baccarat crystal or Sèvres porcelain) filled with fresh flowers or sugar sculptures. Or openwork baskets made of gilded metal or porcelain held seasonal or exotic fruits.
It was not uncommon to add small bronze or bisque porcelain sculptures depicting mythological or allegorical scenes.
In very good condition.
Slight pitting on the mirror.
Empire-period piece attributed to Thomire.
Since only a portion of our furniture and objets d’art is visible on Proantic, we invite you to follow our Instagram account, where you can view all our new arrivals in context: @monantiquaire
We handle shipping for you both within France and internationally. Shipping terms depend on your location. Contact us to find out the cost and arrange your delivery.
We take special care to ensure that your purchases are properly packaged and protected.
Our Entire Collection of Furniture and Art Objects
On our Website:
MON ANTIQUAIRE
We look forward to your visit,
Géraldine Buisson & Manuel Keepfer
Four substantial lion-shaped legs, held in place by a broad palmette framed by two small rosettes, support the centerpiece.
The back is fitted with a mercury mirror.
In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, at grand dinners among high society, the table’s finery was just as important as the food itself. Thus, to enhance this decorum, the mirrored centerpiece served as a showpiece. It was always placed in the center of the table.
The mirror was not merely decorative; in an era when lighting came from candles, it multiplied the glow of the flames, diffusing a sparkling light, making the dining room appear larger, and making the guests’ jewelry sparkle.
Torches, candelabras, or girandoles were placed directly on it.
The mirrored tray also served as a base for other prestigious pieces of silverware or tableware, such as flower bowls or small dishes (often made of Baccarat crystal or Sèvres porcelain) filled with fresh flowers or sugar sculptures. Or openwork baskets made of gilded metal or porcelain held seasonal or exotic fruits.
It was not uncommon to add small bronze or bisque porcelain sculptures depicting mythological or allegorical scenes.
In very good condition.
Slight pitting on the mirror.
Empire-period piece attributed to Thomire.
Since only a portion of our furniture and objets d’art is visible on Proantic, we invite you to follow our Instagram account, where you can view all our new arrivals in context: @monantiquaire
We handle shipping for you both within France and internationally. Shipping terms depend on your location. Contact us to find out the cost and arrange your delivery.
We take special care to ensure that your purchases are properly packaged and protected.
Our Entire Collection of Furniture and Art Objects
On our Website:
MON ANTIQUAIRE
We look forward to your visit,
Géraldine Buisson & Manuel Keepfer
6 800 €
Period: 19th century
Style: Consulat, Empire
Condition: Excellent condition
Length: 71 cm
Width: 55,5 cm
Height: 8,5 cm
Reference (ID): 1844749
Availability: In stock
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