H. Journet & Cie 19th Century French Ormolu Bronze & Oynx Centerpiece
H. Journet & Cie 19th Century French Ormolu Bronze & Oynx Centerpiece
Magnificent 19th Century French bronze mounted onyx centerpiece by H. Journet & Cie.
Wide shallow bowl is crafted from banded variegated onyx with distinct orange and cream tones. Three heavy cast ormolu cherubs surround the bowl, symmetrically arranged and acting as architectural supports. Each cherub is depicted in a distinct, lifelike stance, leaning forward with arms outstretched to brace the heavy vessel. The bronze figures retain a bright reflective gold finish characteristic of high-quality Parisian metal foundry work. Thick, detailed laurel garlands swag around the bowl, connecting the figures. Shaped carved onyx base is mounted with three cartouches decorated with shells and foliate motifs and is raised on decorative gilt bronze feet. Stamped along the side of a cartouche: Sté. des Onyx H. Journet & Cie. 24 Bd. Italiens. In very good condition, with old repair to the underside of the onyx base. A few small spots of oxidation. Founded as Alphonse Pallu & Cie in 1858, the company specialized in luxury decorative objects and furniture utilizing Algerian onyx-marble combined with ormolu bronze. Henri Journet took over direction of the firm around 1875, renaming it H. Journet & Cie.
Circa 1875-1890
Dimensions: 21" x 21" x 16.75"H
#83488
