Antique marble and ormolu centrepiece with cherubs

This marble and ormolu centrepiece is attributed to Edward F. Caldwell & Co. and was crafted in the early 20th century. Founded in 1895, the American firm was one of the best designers and manufacturers of electric light fixtures and decorative metalwork. Many of their creations are based on historic styles, as many of their upper-class clients favoured traditional design.

White marble is expertly carved into a bowl, its shape reminiscent of a boat. While one end is left plain, the other is carved into a flatter shape mounted with an ormolu feature. The scrolled cartouche is flanked by tassels, the centre left plain. The inside of the marble bowl is carved with a leaf-like pattern.

Four ormolu cherubs are depicted lifting and supporting the weight of the marble bowl. Their execution is superb, with fine details such as fingers, facial expressions, and hair clearly visible. They are joined by ribbon-tied foliate garlands leading towards two central ornate mounts.

Supporting the cherubs and the bowl is a shaped, stepped marble base.

Celebrating early 20th century American design, this centrepiece can be displayed alone or, for example, filled with a fruit selection.