Antique VICTORIAN OPALESCENT Art Glass EPERGNE with HANGING BASKETS CENTERPIECE

  

Is an ornately constructed and detailed, highly functional centerpiece. From a historical perspective, epergnes debuted in the late 1600's as a functional item designed to act as a caddy for spices and condiments served at an important meal. In the mid 18th century, their role had shifted to that of the space-saving keeper of the dessert course.

And by the late 18th century, they started appearing with candle holders, lamps, and vases; from the 19th century onward their primary purpose became floral-centric and decorative.. These glass structures with their tiers of holders allowed both the designer (who provided a well-balanced framework to support the tiers), and the glassblower to work together to create impressive works of art. The third set of hands in the process of creating an epergne was the craftsman who fitted the various glass parts together with brass mounts set in plaster. Traditional epergnes have a large central "bowl" or basket; the epergne's smaller functional elements are supported by decorative branches which are spaced symmetrically around the piece.

Depending on the complexity of the epergne, there may be between two and seven branches on the piece. Decorative baskets with wave opalescent baskets and scalloped leaf edging..

The elegant base bowl has the matched scalloped design with scalloped green leaf edging.. Measures approximately: 22 inches tall center vase to base 17 inches-center straight basket structure 8 inches-three hanging baskets height from handle to base 12.5 inches three glass stake branches 12.55 inches-base rim diameter by 3 inches height by 5.5 inches center bras s fittings.

Light Signs of previous ownership, vintage age needs to be taken into consideration and should be expected - A stunning and rare centerpiece, has wonderful shine when the sun hits the glass, some normal signs of previous use... Some metal pieces might have been replaced.. Any imperfections seem to be craft related-I hesitate myself to over screw the center basket in place when taking pictures for presentation - I leave that up to the purchaser to tighten the center branch to keep straight. Due to fragility of this gorgeous piece, I will be double boxing for added protection during transit. If there is a problem and unable to pay within the 4 day time frame, feel free to contact me, we can certainly work something out...