F. Barbedienne - Centrepiece - Patinated bronze

Authentic and magnificent decorative coupe (Tazza) in Neo-Renaissance style from the late 19th century (Napoleon III), crafted by the prestigious and world-famous Parisian house Ferdinand Barbedienne [AQBDuC, 4k9MiA]. This collectible piece has the rare feature of retaining its original paper label affixed to the back, attesting to its historical provenance: “F. BARBEDIENNE, 30 bd Poissonnière - BRONZE D'ART - PARIS” [4k9MiA]. This address helps date its fabrication between 1864 and 1892 [4k9MiA]. Material and Finish: Superb two-tone work in chased and gilded bronze for the circular structure and its handles, elegantly contrasting with the brown patina originally applied to the central medallion [AQBDuC, SfECHl]. This play of contrasts is the graphic signature of the great know-how of the Barbedienne house. Historical decoration: The center of the dish features a bas-relief faithfully reproducing the reverse of the famous Italian Renaissance medal created in 1449 by the master PISANELLO for King Alfonso V of Aragon [AQBDuC]. It is an allegory of royal generosity (“LIBERALITAS AVGVSTA”) depicting a royal eagle perched on a branch, overlooking a fawn and surrounded by vultures [AQBDuC]. Ornamentation: The coupe is flanked by two magnificent side handles richly openworked with a motif of foliated scrolls [SfECHl]. Condition: small crease on the right side as seen in the photo. Very good house condition. Very beautiful old patina with its small signs of time that give it all its charm and authenticity. The warranty label on the back is partially missing on the edges but remains fully authenticatable and legible [4k9MiA]. A piece of goldsmithing and display cabinet-worthy for collectors of 19th-century French art bronzes.