Summary: A fine Empire blue opaline bowl with ormolu rim, made circa 1840-1860. The surprisingly heavy semi-transparent turquoise demi-crystal is of round squat form with a perfectly proportioned flaring mouth. The bronze doré provides a luxurious complement not only in colour, and quality, but also in texture. The satiny feel and finesse of the beaded border visually blends with the micro-crystallization in the glass, finishing the item with satisfying perceptible detail.
Dimensions: 5” diameter x 2 ¼” high. The diameter to surface height is ~ 3.1” or phi; this use of the golden ratio again accounts towards the sublime overall effect.
Weight: 593 grams
Marks & Dating: unsigned, flat cut mouth. This bowl likely dates from either late Charles X or Napoleon III period; the crystal is semi-transparent a sign it is likely pre-1860 as the later the production the more opaque and sometimes less leaded the glass.
Condition: An antique, over 155 years old, it is offered in fine original condition with no damage, chips, scrapes, or repair. Extremely light shelf wear can be seen to the base when carefully angled to catch the light, a sign of authenticity.
