<I>Bouquet holder, narrow with mother of pearl handle</I>

ca.1830-1920

Silver bouquet holder with mother of pearl handle. The narrow vase is composed of four stamped repeats of a grape clusters and leaves design that is partially textured. A floral pin with a loop end is attached by a chain to the base of vase and there is a hole for it on the opposite side. The pin would be inserted through the vase to pierce the stems of a bouquet in order to secure the flowers inside the holder. A second length of the fine, round-link chain attaches a ring to the holder at the same point. 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 neck, which connect the vase to the handle, is urn shaped with a smooth surface. The handle is mother of pearl which flattens out at the base and is carved in the shape of a flower with its leaves. 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.