<I>Bouquet holder, oak leaf & acorn motif</I>

ca.1830-1920

Brass vase and handle. The vase of the bouquet holder is made of an openwork design incorporating oak leaves and acorns. The leaves are designed with realistic features that incorporate jagged edges and viening. Thin wires connect to each of the acorns and leaves to mimic branches. The base of the vase is shaped like the top of an acorn. Two chains made of large open links that connect a pin and ring are attached to the acorn top. The pin would be inserted through the vase in order to secure the flowers in place. The chain with the ring allowed the bouquet holder to be worn on the finger or attached to the waist on a chateliane. The straight handle, also of brass, is textured to create the appearance of a wooden branch. A smooth wire spirals up the shaft coming from the base of the shaft which is modled after an acorn.