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

ca.1830-1920

This tripod bouquet holder is formed in two sections. The upper portion is fashioned with four gilt brass panels in a stylized leaf shape to create the vase. The panels are separated by small openings. From the uppermost pierced holes a single bead dangles in each window. The surface of the leaves is designed with a geometric pattern of black crisscrossing lines and delicate etching which traces the borders. Inside the vase of the holder is a pin extending upward. This is an unusual feature that would have been used to pierce the flower and hold it in place. The vase section is united to the lower portion by a golden ball. The handle section forms a tripod base for the holder. It is etched with scrolling arabesques. The legs of the tripod, when closed, act as a handle, or they can be opened to create a free standing bouquet. A ring on a chain also allows the holder to be worn on the finger. An extra length of chain is also included around the base. This may have been used to secure the legs of the tripod together.