<I>Bouquet holder, flower motif, mother of pearl</I>

ca.1830-1920

Gilded brass bouquet holder with carved mother of pearl handle. The vase is formed by an elaborate collection of arches at top followed downward by shells, flowers, palmettes, and curves stamped in four repeats. The flowers are embellished with a six-dot surface texture. The neck band has a similar texture and is formed into four petals by a single sheet of gilt brass. Attached to the neck is a round-link chain ending in a small ring encircling the handle. The handle is mother of pearl which flattens out at the base and is carved in the shape of a flower with its leaves. 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.