Wolfers Frères – Louis XV Rococo-style Silver Tripod Cup – Late 19th Century

Wolfers Frères – Louis XV Rococo-style silver tripod bowl – Late 19th century

A very beautiful silver tripod bowl by Wolfers Frères, crafted in the late 19th century in the purest Louis XV Rococo style.

This bowl stands out for its dynamic composition and the richness of its silversmithing. Its oval-shaped, slightly scalloped bowl features a smooth, polished interior, accented along the rim by a design of radiating gadroons and rocaille motifs.

The richly chased rim features a series of volutes, scrolls, and stylized shells, characteristic of the Louis XV ornamental repertoire. The contrast between the smooth surfaces of the bowl and the finely worked details particularly highlights the relief and depth of the decoration.

An elegant openwork handle, composed of intertwined curves and volutes, rises from one end of the bowl and blends harmoniously with the overall composition.

The bowl rests on three rocaille feet, also richly carved, which extend the sinuous lines of the decoration.

A beautifully crafted piece, representative of Wolfers Frères’ expertise in interpreting the great French decorative styles, with particular attention paid to the quality of the chiseling, the balance of volumes, and the richness of the ornamentation.

Characteristics

• Silversmith: Wolfers Frères
• Origin: Brussels, Belgium
• Period: Late 19th century
• Style: Louis XV Rococo
• Material: Silver
• Shape: Oval tripod bowl with openwork handle
• Decoration: Rocaille volutes, stylized shells, gadroons, and scalloped border
• Length: Approximately 23 cm
• Width: Approximately 20 cm
• Maximum height: 8 cm
• Weight: 370 g