French Black Marble Patinated & Gilt-Bronze Vase Attributed: Charpentier & Cie

Both the upper rim and the interior of the vase are adorned with gilt borders, while the interior itself is impeccably finished with smooth ormolu mounts, providing a luxurious contrast to the opulent exterior. The upper section of the vase presents a captivating tableau, where stylized, curling wings extend gracefully upwards, supported by sphinx-like creatures on either side. These graceful forms reach upward to meet the hand-carved and gilt rim, creating a seamless transition between the various sections of the vase.

Ormolu handles, meticulously crafted in intricate scrolled foliate designs, are elegantly anchored on either side by highly ornate patinated bronze scrolls. The lower section of the belly of the vase features delicate spire-like motifs. Gracing either lower side, the enigmatic Grecian sphinx figures take their place, distinguished by finely chiseled features and gilded accents that cast an enchanting aura. These sphinxes, characterized by their bearded masks and ornate necklaces, are poised atop masks of mythical males wearing gilt wreaths. These masks, replete with stylized beards and distinctive open mouths revealing a captivating gilt stylized tongue, add an extra layer of intrigue to the composition. The masks are further elevated upon marvelously patinated clawed feet, which, in turn, gracefully support the vase within a quadripartite structure and rest with poise upon a circular base plinth.
France, Circa: 1880