A French Belle Époque frosted glass vase, featuring molded relief decoration of stylized organic foliage, set within ornate gilt-brass mounts. The elegant vessel is flanked by two handles cast in the form of winged nymphs or angels whose outspread wings rest along the pierced geometric rim, their elongated bodies tapering down to meet the lower frame. The vase is supported by a matching pierced gilt-brass base raised on four scroll feet.

This piece exemplifies the late 19th and early 20th-century French taste for mounted vessels (vases montés), combining the ethereal, satin quality of frosted molded glass with the classical opulence of gilt-metal mounts. The winged figure handles draw inspiration from both Renaissance revival and Art Nouveau organic forms.

Historical & Style Details

• Period: Early 20th Century
• Origin: France
• Material / Technique: Molded and frosted glass, cast and pierced gilt brass
• Materials: Glass, brass
• Decorative Details: Winged nymph/angel handles, pierced geometric lattice rim and base, scroll feet, molded floral/leaf relief on glass body
• Colour & Surface: Frosted white glass, satin-finished gilt metal with light age-related patina
• Condition: Excellent vintage condition; light surface wear and minor oxidation to the gilt-metal mounts consistent with age; no visible chips, cracks, or repairs to the glass body

History

Mounted glass vessels, or vases montés, enjoyed a significant resurgence during the Belle Époque and Art Nouveau periods in France. Manufacturers frequently paired frosted or cameo glass bodies—often produced by prominent glassworks—with elaborate bronze or brass mounts crafted by Parisian metalworkers. These decorative objects blended classical motifs, such as winged genii and nymphs, with the fluid, organic lines of the emerging Art Nouveau movement, creating highly prized decorative centerpieces for fashionable European interiors.