<I>Bouquet holder, jeweled, mother of pearl handle</I>

ca.1830-1920

Gilded metal bouquet holder with mother of pearl handle. The openwork vase is comprised of elaborate Rococo Revival style stampings into which are set five square cut red stones. Near the base of the vase a round-link chain connects to a floral pin. 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 vase connects to the handle with a neck band stamped with floral decoration on a background of vertical lines. The spindle handle is made from a luminescent mother of pearl. It has been turned, creating rings and bands as it tapers to a point. 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. Near the tip of the handle, a band connects a second chain connected to a ring to the handle. 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.