<I>Bouquet holder, circle motif, mother of pearl handle</I>

ca.1830-1920

Gilded metal bouquet holder with mother of pearl handle. The funnel-shaped vase is comprised of four open rings with scroll ornamentation. A short length of chain connects a floral pin to the base of the vase. The pin would be inserted through the vase to pierce the stems of a bouquet in order to secure the flowers inside the holder. The neck, which connects the vase to the handle, is decorated with stamped scroll motifs. The handle is mother of pearl in pendulous shape and held on by four textured wires terminating in a ball finial. 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.