A fine French gilt-bronze mounted cut crystal tazza or compot, dating to circa 1900. The circular bowl is intricately decorated with a diamond-cut pattern beneath a heavy gilt-bronze rim chased with a spiraled rope and bead motif. The bowl is supported by a faceted baluster stem leading to a radial-cut circular foot, which is secured within a conforming chased gilt-bronze base ring.

Historical & Style Details

• Maker : French school
• Period: Early 20th Century
• Origin: France
• Technique: Cut crystal with chased and gilded bronze mounts
• Materials: Crystal, gilt-bronze
• Markings: Stamped "MADE IN FRANCE" on the inner edge of the gilt-bronze base ring
• Decorative Details: Diamond-cut bowl, faceted baluster stem, star-cut base, spiraled rope and bead chased rim
• Colour & Surface: Clear crystal with bright gold-gilded mounts showing minor age-related patination
• Condition: Excellent antique condition with minor wear to the gilding and light surface scratches to the underside of the glass base consistent with age and use

History

Mounted crystal of this caliber was highly popular in France during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, drawing inspiration from the grand Empire and Louis XVI periods. Renowned French glassworks such as Baccarat and Saint-Louis frequently collaborated with Parisian bronziers to produce these luxurious decorative objects for an international elite. The presence of the "Made in France" stamp indicates this piece was likely destined for the high-end export market, where French decorative arts were synonymous with taste and luxury.