327 - DECORATIVE GILT BRONZE AND CRYSTAL CENTREPIECE FRUIT BOWL IN THE NAPOLEON III STYLE. FRANCE, SECOND HALF OF THE 19TH CENTURY.

DECORATIVE GILT BRONZE AND CRYSTAL CENTREPIECE FRUIT BOWL IN THE NAPOLEON III STYLE. FRANCE, SECOND HALF OF THE 19TH CENTURY. An elegant French decorative fruit bowl dating from the second half of the nineteenth century, executed in finely chased gilt bronze and clear crystal in the Napoleon III taste. The composition is centred on an expressive allegorical figure of a putto portrayed as a youthful vine grower, holding a sickle while harvesting grapes. The sculptural figure rises from an elaborate Rococo Revival base richly ornamented with cascading grape clusters, twisting vines, acanthus foliage and naturalistic motifs, all symbolising abundance, prosperity and the richness of the harvest. Three gracefully modelled supports, conceived as intertwined vine branches, uphold a detachable clear crystal bowl with a gently undulating rim and finely cut decoration. The luminous contrast between the richly gilded bronze and the brilliant crystal creates the refined decorative effect characteristic of the sumptuous interiors of the Second Empire. Distinguished by the quality of its bronze casting and sculptural modelling, the piece serves not only as a functional fruit bowl but also as an impressive centrepiece for a dining table or mantel display. Dimensions: Height: 25 cm. Width: 24 cm. Depth: 24 cm. Condition: Good. Width: 24cm, Height: 25cm, Depth: 24cm, Weight: 4.075kg, Condition: Good, Material: Gilded bronze, Crystal, ID: ID-ANTQ-5585