<I>Bouquet holder, mesh, mother of pearl handle</I>

ca.1830-1920

Gilded brass bouquet holder with mother of pearl handle. The vase is comprised of mesh sectioned by vertical panels of graduated circles of gilded threads topped by flowers and arches to form rim at top. Its cone shape was formed with four net sheets superimposed with five stamped spirals, which overlap the seams. The stamped mesh continues at bottom to form a looped tail that creates a cornucopia shape and ends with a pair of shells. On the interior of the vase are the remnants of four prongs. These would have secured the flowers in the bouquet holder, unlike most holders that use a floral pin to secure them. The handle is ornately-carved mother of pearl diagonally cut at the top where it connects to the vase. Mother of pearl handles retained a cool feeling longer than some other materials; because of this, they were said to be appropriate for warmer months. A ring with stars around the band is connected to the bouquet holder by a short length of round-link chain attached to a loop around the handle.