Vase (2) - Metal, Marble - Neoclassical Garnishes

Neoclassical Garnitures, Spelter and Marble, Napoleon III – France
Refined garnitures made in France during the Napoleon III period. They feature a structure consisting of a central urn-shaped body, with edges decorated in relief with floral garlands featuring lush roses, acanthus leaves, and various Neoclassical motifs. Three curving, dynamic legs support the urn on its base. The entire structure is made of spelter, an alloy used in the 19th century as an alternative to bronze, easy to work and given a dark patina to lend it a solemn appearance. The marble base is pink brecciated marble, probably Italian.
Garnitures like these were commonly used to complement mantel clocks or to adorn consoles and fireplaces. The choice of materials such as spelter, patinated to imitate bronze, reflected the desire to democratize luxury, making these pieces accessible to a rising bourgeoisie.
Napoleon III or Second Empire Style and Period
The Napoleon III or Second Empire style takes its name from having originated in France during that period. Strictly speaking, the Second Empire was proclaimed in 1852 and ended in 1870, under the rule of Louis-Napoleon Bonaparte as Emperor of the French, although in artistic terms it extended for a few more years (until 1880). The style was very well received by the French bourgeoisie. The emperor himself was involved in the artistic development of the period, though more closely in connection with architecture. However, it was Empress Eugénie who was responsible for the development of the decorative arts.
Although it drew inspiration from styles of the past, beginning with Classical Antiquity and the Renaissance, and even Louis XVI, which Eugénie greatly admired, the style’s most characteristic feature is its sumptuousness and ostentation, always striving to display wealth and opulence.
It was not a style designed specifically for the Second Empire, but rather a revival of the various great French styles of previous centuries—a kind of compilation of French decorative trends. Particular reference is made to the Louis XIV and Louis XV styles, Baroque, and Rococo, with Louis XVI gradually gaining prominence; the style was eclectic in nature. In short, it brought together the decorative styles that had established France as a leader in European interior design and furniture design, both for their quality and their originality and beauty.
Material: Spelter, Marble
Style: Neoclassical
Period: Napoleon III
Country of origin: France
In good condition for its age and use
Dimensions: 26 x 18 x 18 cm.


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