Pair of Antique French Veined Marble Cassolette Urns With Acorn Finials

Description

Since the 16th century, the French have been some of the most significant contributors to the different decorating styles in … more Since the 16th century, the French have been some of the most significant contributors to the different decorating styles in Europe. Among the items that can uniquely be identified with France are the cassolettes, a group of highly decorated urns that serve functional and decorative purposes. Cassolettes fell a the broader group of garnitures that included clocks and other smaller items made from gilt bronze.

Because of their intricate beauty, French cassolettes are high sought after by collectors. Most of the items available today first appeared in the 17th century and became popular in the 19th century. The most common materials for making French cassolettes urns included but were not limited to marble and bronze. The marble formed the vessel's base, while the gilt bronze mainly acted as a decoration. Apart from the bottom, marble made up the bowl part of the cassoulet. They often have intricate finials imitating real-life items, including flowers, foliage, and windings.

Offered here is a pair of elegant French cassolettes urns made sometime in the 1800s. The scrolled handles are definitely bronze (with highlighted finish). The metal parts between the bases and the bowls seems to have a more yellow hue than the bronze handles. The base of both urns have four bronze feet, and there are bronze acorn finials at the tops.

The star attraction of these urns are the colors of the veins. The last few photos I have included are an attempt to show the variety of colors. Studying this pair, you can see veins of charcoal, raw sienna, and oxblood. Even more exciting, if you look closely in the right light, some of the areas of white are actually a veeery pale, subtle pink.

These stand about 13.5" tall up to the top of the finial. The footprint of each base measures about 6" X 4.5".

No damage or unusual wear to any of the metal portions on either urn. Marble on both pieces is in exceptionally fine condition except for one shallow linear rough area on the BACK BOTTOM edge of one of the bases. (See close up photo). Of course when the urn is sitting upright, this area cannot be seen. less