French Empire Ormolu and Cut Crystal Tazzas by Pierre-Philippe Thomire, 1810, Set of 2

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An exceptional pair of French First Empire tazzas or pedestal fruit stands, after a documented model by Pierre-Philippe Thomire (1751–1843), … Read more An exceptional pair of French First Empire tazzas or pedestal fruit stands, after a documented model by Pierre-Philippe Thomire (1751–1843), Paris, circa 1810. Each tazza is composed of a finely cast, chased and mercury-gilt bronze (ormolu) pedestal supporting a substantial hand-cut crystal dish. The circular dishes are richly cut with a radiating starburst to the center, surrounded by an intricate diamond-cut pattern and finished with a scalloped border. The gilt-bronze supports are particularly refined, formed as tapering pedestals entirely decorated with elongated acanthus and palm-leaf motifs, above bands of classical ornament. Each rests upon a stepped square plinth, creating the strong architectural profile characteristic of the finest decorative objects of the French Empire period. Although the present examples are unsigned, this exact model is documented in period inventories associated with the production of Pierre-Philippe Thomire, one of the most celebrated Parisian bronziers of the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The survival of the two as a matching pair considerably enhances their decorative impact and collector appeal. One of the original cut-crystal dishes has an area of damage/loss, clearly illustrated in the photographs. . The ormolu retains an attractive historic surface with wear consistent with age. Maker/Model: Pierre-Philippe Thomire (1751–1843) Origin: Paris, France Date: Circa 1810 Period: First French Empire Materials: Mercury-gilt bronze (ormolu) and hand-cut crystal Dimensions of each: 20 cm high × 23 cm diameter Condition: Good antique condition consistent with age. One cut-crystal dish with a significant chip/loss to the rim, as clearly shown in the photographs. Expected minor wear to the gilding. See less