This oval-shaped bowl is spacious and generously flared, with fluid lines accentuated by a finely gadrooned border. Two elegantly coiled side handles—featuring sinuous, masterfully designed curves—harmoniously extend the movement of the basin, lending the piece a striking decorative presence.

The body rests on a contoured stem, adorned with relief motifs, which expands into a pedestal base with a four-lobed (quadrilobed) footprint. This richly crafted base combines successive moldings with an abundant decorative program of scrolling vines, stylized foliage, and symmetrical flourishes. The entire piece stands on delicately shaped feet, which reinforce the architectural elegance of the composition.

The intricate chasing is one of the primary highlights of this piece. Executed with great refinement, it displays a lush ornamental repertoire of scrolls, foliate coils, and botanical motifs.

Dimensions:

Length including handles 30.5 cm – Diameter of the bowl 25.5 cm

Depth of the bowl 6 cm – Total height: 26 cm – Base: 16 × 16 cm

Material: First-standard silver (950/1000)

Weight: 1,300 grams

Hallmark: Minerva

Period: Late 19th century, Napoleon III era

Silversmith: Gustave Odiot

Origin: France/Paris