<I>Bouquet holder, filigree</I>

ca.1830-1920

Silver filigree bouquet holder with missing base. The funnel-shaped vase is comprised of intricate filigree overlaid with serrated, filigree leaves. The substantial rim of the vase dips down in the front and is adorned with applied loops of dangling wire. The neck, which would have connected the vase to the handle, is decorated with filigree leaves alternating with applied silver flowers on long, slender stems. Two short lengths of chain are attached below the neck. The first is broken and would have attached 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.