Rare Wedding Bassinoire In Similor. 18th Century.

Forged and lathe-worked tank, with rolled edge and socket projection. Nested lid with rolled edge, decorated with repoussé and engraved on a matte background, with two palms, two facing doves separated by two hearts, one of which is inflamed. Original handle, in turned wood, caught in a wrought iron socket with riveted legs. These rivets are made up of small strips of brass rolled on themselves in 2 or 3 turns, and the ends of which, hammered on installation, form the flattened helicoid heads. In addition to the quality of its decor, the originality of this basin lies in the nature of its material: SIMILOR or CHRYSOCALE, a variety of brass (formed from 70 % copper for 30 % zinc). Similor contains 90% copper, 8% zinc and 2% lead and tin. Invented in 1729, this alloy resists oxidation well. When observed uncast or rolled, it gives the appearance of green gold (75% gold, 25% silver), without however possessing its incomparable qualities. Mainly used in costume jewellery, it was also made into torches, chandeliers, lamps and more rarely kitchen utensils. On our basin, this green gold color, matte, is especially true inside the lid and the tank. This is only the 2nd basin in similor, that we come across in more than 50 years of research. Total length: 94.5 cm. Diameter: 30cm. 18th century period. Very good condition. Some fillings with tin, and small holes in the reliefs of the periphery of the lid. See additional information at: http://antiquites-lauginie.fr/bassinoire/ Free shipping by COLISSIMO for metropolitan France.