Magnificent sculptural silvered and gilt jardinière by Christofle

Of a very large size, this stunning centrepiece jardinière is highly unusual, the main body decorated with a narrative sculptural frieze.

The piece is ovoid in shape, with two circular feet on either side to support the figural handles, decorated with foliage and scrolling designs. Two further lion paw feet support each of the longer sides. The jardinière is inset with a silvered bronze liner.

Set against an ormolu backing, the main body of the planter is completely covered by a sculptural frieze, depicting a procession of cherubs. The putti, wonderfully cast in silvered bronze, carry various items, including animals, wine vessels, and musical instruments. The laurel crowns, bunches of grapes, and thyrsi (spears capped with pinecones) suggest that the procession is to commemorate Bacchus, the Roman god of wine and celebration.

In the centre of each of the longer sides, several cherubs hold up an ormolu standard, on top of which sits presumably the god himself in cherubic form. The seated cherub is replete with Bacchic signifiers, including musical instruments, flasks of wine, and animal skins. The standard is adorned with a fruit-filled swag that hangs across the centre. Each putto is cast with a unique pose and expression, emphasising the extraordinary metalworking feat undertaken with this piece.

The twin handles are cast as winged angels, which given the classical theme could evoke the famed image of the goddess Nike as ‘winged victory’. Like the cherubs, the winged figureheads are superbly cast, from the ruffled texture of their wings to the flowing fabric that drapes from their waists. Both figures hold bunches of fruit and flowers, adding to the sense of natural abundance. The gilt scrollwork behind the figurative handles provides a stunning colour contrast to the silver.

The piece is stamped on the base ‘CHRISTOFLE & CIE’. Renowned for introducing the techniques of electrolytic gilding and silver-plating to the 19^th century market, French firm Christofle continue to make exceptional metalware pieces today. This superb jardinière is a particularly fine example of their work.

Combining gilded and silvered elements with true sculptural finesse, this jardinière would be a showpiece in any home.