<I>Bouquet holder, flower and scrolls, mother of pearl handle</I>

ca.1830-1920

The vase of the bouquet holder is created from interlacing heavy gilt wires. It is four-sided with a central gold loop at each side that is held in place by rings. At the center of each loop there are alternating enamel or gold flowers. The enameled flowers are designed with three clover-like petals surrounding a central coral colored bead. Around this enamel and beaded flower, similar beads are set in leafy mounts. This botanical representation created with beads and gold leaves is also present on the adjacent sides of the vase. Many of the beads are missing. The four sides are also comprised of intertwining gold wires that create spirals and curves that serve as the support, which connect the vase to the base. The bottom portion of the vase is comprised of green enamel leaves that cradle the wired portion. The handle of the bouquet holder is made of mother of pearl with a metal band around the top and bottom of the stem. These bands likely connected a chain that attached a ring and pin to the bouquet holder. Chain attached to a ring. that 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. 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.