A rare champagne bucket, an essential element of table décor and ceremonial wine service in aristocratic settings of the 19th century. This massive and striking piece is executed in a mixed technique of casting, repoussé, and engraving, designed in the style of late Neo-Baroque with classical allusions. The body is encircled by a high-relief bacchanalian scene depicting a procession of nude and semi-nude men and women bearing goblets, garlands, fruit baskets, and musical instruments. The composition is rich in motion, elegance, and finely sculpted detail. The handles take the form of cast satyr heads with horns and beards—mythological companions of Dionysus—joined by oak leaf garlands embracing the upper rim. The lower section features ribbons and medallions in Neoclassical taste. The bucket stands on four robust lion paw feet with acanthus scrolls.
Marks: French import silver mark charançon (weevil) on the rim, certifying the import of silver objects of not less than 800 fineness into France from 1893 onward. Unidentified triangular makers or importer’s mark. Additional ornamental crescent-shaped stamp.
Dimensions: Height: 22.5 cm, Diameter: 19 cm
Weight: 2,110 g
Condition: Good collector’s condition.
Provenance: Private French collection. Presumably made in Germany in the second half of the 19th century.
The condition report is provided for informational purposes only.
It is not comprehensive and may not reflect all defects, restorations, alterations, or adaptations, as Antiqon does not perform professional conservation-level assessments. The information is based on a qualified, yet subjective, evaluation by our specialists.Before purchasing, we recommend consultation with an independent expert.Please also consult our Terms and conditions and Glossary A-Z, which contain important information on lot characteristics and sale conditions.
