19th, Circolar Ormolu Bronze French Centerpiece With Mirror

19th, Circolar Ormolu bronze French Centerpiece with Mirror
France, early 19th century.
Period: between Empire and Charles X

This splendid French centerpiece has a round base covered by a mirror, surrounded by a rich frame made of finely carved bronze, both externally and internally, and gilded. The perforated frame is decorated with leaf volutes, interspersed with vases of flowers and fruit and, in correspondence with the four supports, with harps. It rests on a band, always in gilded bronze, chiselled with bay leaf decoration with berries. The particularity of this surtout de table is the remarkable size, very rare. The surtout de table, which entered French fashion in the second half of the 18th century, was designed to be placed in the centre of a dining table. Topped by candelabra, it reflects the light produced by the flame creating a pleasant brightness. It can also spread the light of a chandelier suspended above it. It could also be used to display floral arrangements or, as a tray, to serve fruit and desserts. The object will be of great effect both on an antique table and on a modern wooden or crystal table, on which will bring refinement, elegance and plenty of light.