A LOUIS XVI STYLE ORMOLU MOUNTED FLEUR DE PÊCHER MARBLE "NEREID" URN, BY SUSSE FRÈRES, SECOND HALF 19TH CENTURY, with a circular flat rim on a short conforming neck flaring to shoulder, flanked by a pair of nicely cast split tailed kneeling nereids holding aloft long leafed bull rush garlands, on a tapering circular body with a recess paneled frieze enclosing a crisply detailed gilt bronze mount centering a musical trophy modeled as a bow ribbon tied tambourine suspending castanets above blossoming stems over a bagpipe and syrinx, within sides of a seated boy and girl satyr infant blaring their cornucopia horns before crossed grapevine and clusters surrounding a foraging bird, over a spreading circular socle within an acorn and oak leaf cast wreath and acanthus corner clasps on a matching square form marble plinth. Height: 22 1/2" Width: 11" Depth: 8" Note: This elegant Neo-Classical style vase with the finely cast, chased and gilt bronze mounts is highly reminiscent of the works by the great French 18th century fondeur-ciseleurs working under the ancien regime as well as the Empire periods. Variations of the nereid marine theme can be found in bronze mounts by Pierre-Philippe Thomire (French 1751-1843) and Pierre Gouthière (French 1732-1813). Provenance: Private Collection, Galveston, Texas

Drilled for electricity, domed metal lid is modern, some edge nicks throughout, gilding is fairly bright but has some buildup in areas and spots, marble socle has some light wear at top under the vase, plinth has some edge nicks and a repaired crack but is mounted on a gilt bronze frame so is strong and hardly noticeable.  Simpson Galleries strongly encourages in-person inspection of items by the bidder. Statements by Simpson Galleries regarding the condition of objects are for guidance only and should not be relied upon as statements of fact and do not constitute a representation, warranty, or assumption of liability by Simpson Galleries. All lots offered are sold "AS IS." NO REFUNDS will be issued based on condition.