Centrepiece - Openwork, Wavy work, High-relief, Repoussé - Silver plated brass - Heraldic/Abundance Symbol

Discover a visually striking decorative work of art, an imposing centerpiece. This piece stands out for its intricate ornamentation and opulent design, capturing the essence of historical silverware. The high level of craftsmanship and the existing patina suggest considerable age.
-Origin: Italy (Piece without maker's marks, but the style and quality of execution indicate Italian production).
-Artist: Anonymous. Piece without maker's marks.
-Style: Late Rococo / Neo-Renaissance. (The most famous pattern inspired by classical designs that used iconography similar to this centerpiece, rich in fruits, leaves, and heraldic elements, is the "Francis I" pattern by Reed & Barton or "Grande Baroque" by Wallace (American silversmiths), introduced in 1906. It features different variations of Renaissance-inspired fruit and flower motifs on silverware and tableware.)
-Period: Late 19th - early 20th century (c. 1880-1920). (During this period, meticulous craftsmanship was common in high-quality silver-plated items.)
-Material: Silver-plated brass.
-Technique: Combines openwork and wavy work for the rim structure and high-relief repoussé to shape and texture the decorative motifs.
- -Opulent ornamentation: The scalloped rim features an intricate design of vines, grape leaves, and bunches of grapes, symbols of abundance. In the central motif, two stylized eagles or falcons are perched in profile. (Eagles and falcons are powerful symbols in heraldry and ornamental art throughout history. They represent nobility, strength, vision, and power.)
-Dimensions: Outer diameter (lowest/highest point): 36 to 35 cm. Inner bowl diameter: 14 to 18 cm. Rim height: 5 to 7 cm.
-Condition: Excellent condition for its age. It has been professionally cleaned and polished. The dark, persistent patina prior to cleaning indicated significant age. The surface now has a polished sheen with minimal natural wear to the silver plating. However, it is worth noting that on the rim of the inner bowl, there is a small area, approximately 5-7 mm in diameter, where the silver plating has worn away, revealing the underlying brass (see the photo with the black circle and the following photo). This is consistent with its age and use. There are no visible breaks or repairs.
Note: In the high-resolution photos, the hammered texture and deep relief of the acanthus leaves, characteristic of the Rococo and Baroque styles, are clearly visible. The acanthus leaves and bunches of grapes are worked in very deep relief, creating a strong contrast of light and shadow that adds drama and visual richness to the design. The use of different techniques to texturize the metal is evident. Some areas are smooth and highly polished to reflect light, while others, such as the center of the leaves, have a hammered or engraved surface to give them a more organic and realistic appearance. The level of detail suggests careful and expert craftsmanship, typical of the ornate styles of the Baroque or Rococo periods. It is truly a piece that stands out for its ornamental complexity and the technical skill of its creator, demonstrating that the value of an object does not always reside in the material, but in the artistry applied in its creation. This type of iconography is often associated with hunting and falconry, a "sport of kings" practiced among European nobility. Although it is a silverplated brass, the choice of the eagle/falcon reinforces the sense of luxury and status associated with the piece.
This piece is a stunning addition and a focal point for any antique collector, offering a touch of historical elegance and superior craftsmanship.
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