Superb Rococo-style jardinière, crafted in solid silver and richly chiseled with volutes, foliage scrolls, shells, and ornate cartouches. The exuberant decoration, of great virtuosity, illustrates the Second Empire's taste for the sumptuous reinterpretation of the Louis XV style.

The piece is centered by a medallion engraved with a monogram and flanked by two openwork side handles, ending in leafy scrolls. The removable gilt brass interior, designed to hold floral arrangements, protects the silver from possible deterioration.

Dimensions: L. 57 cm – W. 30 cm – H. 18 cm

Gross weight: 2015 g

Minerva hallmark (950/1000 silver).

Unidentified silversmith's hallmark.

Period: NAPOLEON III

Origin: France/Paris