Cristallerie francesi - Centrepiece (2) - Crystal

Set of two mouth-blown transparent crystal centerpieces (or fruit bowls / or cake stands) in antique hand-worked, finely milled and acid-engraved crystal. The first object stands out for the lightness of its proportions and the delicacy of its decorative apparatus, typical of European high-end production. The cup has a wide, flared profile in a basin-like shape, with a shallow depth that makes it ideal for displaying fruit, sweets, or centerpieces.
Engraved Decoration: The interior of the plate hosts a refined continuous motif executed in graffiti or acid engraving. It develops on two levels: The rim features a rich peripheral frame in neobaroque taste, formed by scrolls (rocaille), arabesques, and small geometric elements. From the rim, delicate floral tendrils and sinuous ramages cascade toward the center, dotted with small five-petaled flowers that give the whole piece a fresh, spring-like, light appearance. The stem and the central shaft are made of solid crystal and are shaped with a twisted (or knotted) baluster milling. The vertical facet ribs catch and refract light, creating a structural and visual focal point that elevates the entire composition. The wide inverted bell-shaped base, slightly domed, provides stability to the object. The outer edge features a rounded and finished thickness to resist impacts.
Style, Dating and Historical Context. Period: Late 19th Century – Early 20th Century (Belle Époque). The type of crystal and the finesse of the ramified floral engraving orient its origin toward the French area (with historic manufactories such as Baccarat or Saint-Louis, famous for this kind of service stands). Size: height 17.7 cm x diameter 23 cm.
The second piece is a cake stand (or cake dome) from the period, characterized by refined craftsmanship both in the structure and in the decorations. The upper plate presents a circular profile with a slightly elevated edge, designed to contain and prevent the slipping of the dishes. The inner surface is enriched by a rich acid-engraving (or sandblasting) that develops a continuous garland ornament. The decoration, of classic/retro taste, combines floral tendrils, light leaves, and baroque scrolls. The central stem inserts into a robust but slender shaft. The upper part of the stem shows a distinctive concave or candelabrum-shaped form, which then descends into a central element shaped with vertical twisted ribbing (torciglione/costolature), imparting dynamism and creating splendid light play. The base closes at the bottom with a wide inverted bell-shaped circular base, flared and smooth, ensuring stability and momentum to the entire structure. The garland develops into a rich circular concentric band that frames the plate. The design is characterized by an elegant alternation of “C”- and “S”-shaped scrolls in Baroque/Rococo style, enriched with ribbed details and internal geometric textures that create contrast with the transparency of the glass. From the main scrolls extend lighter floral tendrils, stylized acanthus leaves, and small bouquets of flowers that extend delicately toward both the outer edge and the center, giving dynamism and visual lightness to the composition. Period: Late 19th Century – Early 20th Century (Belle Époque). The type of crystal and the finesse of the ramified floral engraving orient its origin toward the French area (with historic manufactories such as Baccarat or Saint-Louis, famous for this kind of service stands). Size: height 15.6 cm x diameter 25.9 cm.