Attributed to Charles Viard - Centrepiece - Silverplated - Belle Époque Refinement

A superb centerpiece crafted in silver-plated metal, distinguished by its elegant, architecturally inspired, and classically inspired design. The main body consists of a wide, circular bowl with elegant radial geometric openwork, finished with a rim decorated with pearl friezes. It rises from a tripartite support of exceptional sculptural quality, composed of three S-shaped legs culminating in detailed ram's hooves, an iconic motif of the Neoclassical style. The central shaft and molded base provide the stability and balance characteristic of late 19th-century luxury metalwork.
-Attributed to Charles Viard
-Origin: France
-Style: Neoclassical/Empire
-Period: Late 19th Century (Circa 1880-1900/ Belle Époque)
-Material: Silver-plated
-Ornamentation: Notable features include the iconic hoof-shaped feet, acanthus leaves, pearl friezes, and a central shaft with a foliate finial. The openwork on the upper band is remarkably fine.
- Hallmark/Mark: Features the manufacturer's hallmark "CV" with a manufacturer's logo in the center (a stylized floral/bush symbol, a manufacturer's logo linked to the high-quality Charles Viard workshop, common on French export pieces for Central Europe, England, Germany, and Austria-Hungary).
Historical note on the hallmark:
*[In France, following the 1860 decree, the use of the "poinçon de responsabilité" (manufacturer's hallmark) within a perfect square (90° corners) was standardized for silver-plated metal, while solid silver continued to use the lozenge.]
*It was very common for French manufacturers like Christofle or Viard to produce pieces for large distributors in Europe (London, Vienna, or Berlin). Often, these pieces did not bear the full name, but only the hallmark ("CV").
-Measurements:
*Height: 22cm
*Bowl rim diameter: 22.3cm
*Base diameter: 15.5cm
-Condition: Excellent structural condition. The structure remains firm with very small dents in the smooth center. The silver plating retains its original luster with the natural wear consistent with its age, guaranteeing its origin and period.
The quality of this centerpiece is so high that it visually rivals the finest pieces of that era, offering an elegance that only French silversmithing of that time could capture.
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