<I>Bouquet holder, loops and balls, mother of pearl handle</I>

ca.1830-1920

Gilded metal bouquet holder with mother of pearl handle. The vase is comprised of openwork loops, hemispheres, and architectural ornaments in a mixture of Baroque and Gothic motifs, which is representative of the interest in historicism found in nineteenth century design. A short length of chain connected to a ring is attached to the side of the vase. The ring would allow the bouquet holder to be worn from the finger or on a chatelaine at the waist to free the lady's hands while dancing. The elaborate, spindle handle is made from turned mother of pearl with a gold band near the tip. 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.