Cristallerie francesi - Centrepiece (2) - Crystal

Set of two mouth-blown antique clear crystal stands (centerpiece/fruit bowl or for cakes), finely hand-finished with grinding and acid engraving techniques. The first piece stands out for the lightness of its proportions and the delicacy of the decorative apparatus, typical of high-end European production. The cup has a wide, flared rim in a basin-like shape, with a shallow depth that makes it ideal for displaying fruit, sweets, or table-center arrangements.
Engraved Decoration: The interior of the plate hosts a refined continuous motif executed in graffito or acid. It develops in two registers: The edge features a rich peripheral frame in neobaroque taste, formed by volutes (rocaille), arabesques, and small geometric elements. From the edge, delicate flowering tendrils and sinuous ramages cascade toward the center, studded with small five-petaled flowers that give the whole piece a fresh, spring-like, light appearance. The stem and central column are made of solid crystal and are shaped with a twisted or knotted baluster grind. The vertical facets with ribbing catch and refract light, creating a structural and visual focal point that elongates the entire composition. The wide inverted bell-shaped base, slightly convex, provides stability to the object. The outer edge features a rounded, finished thickness to resist impacts.
Style, Dating and Historical Context. Era: Late 19th Century – Early 20th Century (Belle Époque period).
The type of crystal and the fineness of the engraving of the floral sprigs orient the 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 dessert stand (or cake stand) from the period, characterized by refined artisanal workmanship both in the structure and in the decorations. The upper plate presents a circular profile with a slightly raised rim, designed to contain and prevent items from slipping. The inner surface is adorned with rich acid-engraving (or sandblasting) developing a continuous garland ornament. The decoration, of classic/retro taste, combines floral tendrils, light foliage, and baroque-rococo volutes. The central stem is joined to a stout yet slender shaft. The upper part of the stem shows a distinctive “bowl” or candelabra configuration, which then descends into a central element shaped with vertical twisted ribbing/ribs, giving dynamism and creating splendid light plays. The base closes at the bottom with a wide circular inverted bell base, flared and smooth, which guarantees stability and a sense of lift to the entire structure. The garland unfolds in a rich circular concentric band that frames the plate. The design is characterized by an elegant alternation of “C” and “S” scrolls in Baroque/Rococo style, enriched with serrated details and internal geometric textures that contrast with the transparency of the glass. From the main scrolls, lighter botanical branches, stylized acanthus leaves, and small bouquets of flowers extend delicately toward both the outer edge and the center, imparting dynamism and visual lightness to the composition. Era: Late 19th Century – Early 20th Century (Belle Époque period). The type of crystal and the fineness of the engraving of the floral sprigs orient the origin toward the French area (with historic manufactories like Baccarat or Saint-Louis, famous for this kind of service stands). Size: height 15.6 cm x diameter 25.9 cm.