| This is a lovely French signed gilded silver decorative centerpiece in the form of three figural cherubs surrounded by grapes and vine leaves. It has been beautifully cast to extremely high standards and its subject matter is perfectly charming and completely irresistible. The three young figures are sitting and reclining contentedly amidst the remains of their Bacchanalian revelry, the delightfully mischievous expressions on their beautifully and exquisitely crafted faces attesting to their enjoyment of the wine! The most prominent figure is holding a wine pitcher on his knee and looks extremely merry! One of his companions is holding an empty wine glass in his hand, the contents of which he has clearly just consumed with great gusto, while the third figure has set aside his Pan pipes and is happily munching on a bunch of grapes. All three figures have been crafted with extraordinary skill, their facial features having remarkably realistic expressions and the contours of their pleasingly plump little bodies being particularly well observed and executed. Their little goat-like legs have nicely detailed fur and culminate in meticulously made cloven hooves. Each of their heads has been crowned with a garland of vine leaves and berries which accentuates the tousled curls of their beautifully made hair. Even the vine leaves and grape clusters scattered on the ground all around them have been expertly crafted with great skill and precision. The piece is in perfect condition with a lovely rich deep golden color and very fine definition on all the decorative elements. It has been clearly signed on the lower rim with the name A. Aucoc in between a pair of French hallmarks[950 fine silver]. This very attractive decorative centerpiece would add a charming touch of whimsy to any table setting and would be sure to delight any wine-lover. It measures approx. 7 ¾” in diameter at the base and stands approx. 5 ½’ high to the top of the head of the tallest figure. It weighs an impressive 66 troy ounces. Price: $15,000.00 Stock # BA707 |