<I>Bouquet holder, filigree, tripod</I>

ca.1830-1920

Silver filigree bouquet holder with tripod base. The funnel-shaped vase is comprised of three filigree panels, which create a scalloped rim. The neck, which connects the vase to the handle, is decorated with filigree leaves with dangling acorns. Two short lengths of chain are attached to the side of the vase. The first attaches to a floral pin, which would be inserted through the vase to pierce the stems of a bouquet in order to secure the flowers inside the holder. The second chain has a filigree sphere-shaped charm hanging from it and terminates in a ring. 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. The handle of the bouquet holder also serves as a tripod stand. This would allow the bouquet holder to act as a free-standing table or mantle ornament. Three curved panels with intricate filigree spring out, each with a foot at the end to add stability. The ring around the top of the legs could be slid down in order to secure the legs together. The when the legs were secured together, they acted as a straight, stem handle for the bouquet holder.