Large Bohemian ormolu and enamelled glass centrepiece vase

This exceptionally large centrepiece vase is crafted from ormolu and beautiful blue Bohemian enamelled glass. The ormolu structure of the vase is wrought in a distinctly foliate manner: the legs and other supports are rendered as branches and are appended with leaves, berries, and birds, all superbly crafted from ormolu.

The vase is comprised of two tiers: a lower, broad bowl and an upper flared flute, the form of the latter resembling a horn. The glass throughout is enamelled with birds and floriate designs: floral sprays of pink flowers and vibrant green leaves abound, their bright colours accented by the wonderful blue ground of the glass.

Bohemian glass has long been celebrated for its unparalleled beauty, and the present piece, combined with wonderfully crafted gilt bronze, demonstrates why this is the case.