Steeped in the grand neoclassical restraint of 18th-century French design, this striking pair of antique Louis XVI-style lidded cassolettes was masterfully crafted in France during the early 1900s. Originally conceived in antiquity as ornamental vessels for aromatic resins, this scaled pair serves as a masterful study in texture, shadow, and old-world luxury.

The ovoid bodies are carved from a richly figured, deep black marble displaying elegant, soft white and charcoal veining. Each urn is dramatically embraced by a stately gilt bronze (or-molu) tripod stand. The slender, sweeping legs are crowned by intricately cast neoclassical female bust motifs on three sides, descending gracefully into architectural supports. The separate, dome-shaped marble lids are anchored by a proudly cast, towering pinecone finial setting atop-a classical Roman symbol of celebration, enlightenment, and enduring heritage. The entire structure rests on a weighted, tiered circle of matching black marble, creating a perfectly grounded, symmetrical presence.

Perfect for bringing a sense of historic gravitas to a tailored traditional library mantle, flanking an antique clock set, or injecting a bit of moody, eclectic European flair into a modern, high-contrast interior.

Measuring 10" tall, and 4" width


Condition:
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Superb antique condition, exhibiting a spectacular time-honored character. The black marble bodies retain a deep, lustrous polish with no major structural fractures. True to their antique lineage, there is a slight, well-executed repair to the outer edge of the lower urn base, with a few very small missing pieces that blend beautifully with the natural black and charcoal veining. The gilt bronze mountings display a rich, authentic aged patina with beautiful oxidation and darker variance in the crevices, highlighting the depth of the original castings. Lids sit squarely and securely, and the minor historic touch-up does not compromise the structural integrity or the stately presentation of this exceptional pair.

Origin:
France

Materials & Techniques:
Black Marble, Gold

Details:
Country of Origin: France
What type of item is it? Not Used

Some Imperfections; Superb antique condition, exhibiting a spectacular time-honored character. The black marble bodies retain a deep, lustrous polish with no major structural fractures. True to their antique lineage, there is a slight, well-executed repair to the outer edge of the lower urn base, with a few very small missing pieces that blend beautifully with the natural black and charcoal veining. The gilt bronze mountings display a rich, authentic aged patina with beautiful oxidation and darker variance in the crevices, highlighting the depth of the original castings. Lids sit squarely and securely, and the minor historic touch-up does not compromise the structural integrity or the stately presentation of this exceptional pair.