<I>Bouquet holder, female figure with tobacco leaf pattern, with pattern handle</I>

ca. 1830-1920

Stamped gilt metal holder formed of five identical female figures and tobacco leaf repeats. Each is dressed in a headdress, necklace, and flowing skirt with boots, and are likely meant to depict the stylized ideal of the "Indian maidens" of the Americas held by Europeans. The handle is in the same pattern in three repeats and is capped with a ball. Two chains attach to the center of the bouquet holder between the vase and handle. One is attached to a pin which would be inserted through a hole in one of the figure's chest. This would pierce the stems of the bouquet in order to secure it in the holder. The second chain attaches to a ring. This could be worn on about the finger or hung on a chatelaine to free the lady's hands while dancing.