Late 19th Century French Japonisme Etched Gilt and Cut Crystal Centerpiece

Description

French Japonisme Etched Gilt and Cut Crystal Centerpiece with Phoenix birds. Circa late 19th century or early 20th.
Decorated with … more French Japonisme Etched Gilt and Cut Crystal Centerpiece with Phoenix birds. Circa late 19th century or early 20th.
Decorated with etched dual phoenix birds (Japanese Hou-ou) and gilt blossoming flowers on the rim. The etched birds are depicted as male-female, facing each other and forming a lovely heart. In Japan, as earlier in China, the mythical Phoenix was adopted as a symbol of the imperial household, particularly the empress. This mythical bird represents fire, the sun, justice, obedience, fidelity, and the southern star constellations.

Provenance: private collection. Wedding gift.
Measurements: approx. 12.5 inches (31.5 cm) in diameter, 4.75 inches (12 cm) high.
Condition: Very good for its age. Very well preserved. crystal glass intact. Some imperfections to the golden gilt shown in photographs.
Interested buyers are highly encouraged to ask all necessary questions before purchase. Thank you. less