Classical sterling silver compote. Made by John Wendt for Ball, Black in New York, ca 1870. Round and curved bowl mounted to open support comprising three leafing oak shoots with acorns inset with cast figure of standing boy holding a ball in each hand with one arm raised. Domed foot. Reeding and beading.

A fashionable centerpiece evocative of youth and growth. The figure suggests the influence of the Dancing Faun, the ancient statue in the Uffizi in Florence that was a grand tour icon. The frenetic, cymbal-clanging, fig-leafed original has been transformed into a chaste and draped prepubescent.

Marked “Ball, Black & Co. / New York” and “289 / English Sterling”. Very good condition.

Dimensions: H 10 x D 8 3/4 in. Weight: 26.5 troy ounces. #BW520