Fantastic antique French Napoleon III era gilt bronze ormolu & mother of pearl 'vide poche', jewelry, bonbon or trinket dish with very unique two-toned winged serpent, gargoyle or griffin figures, toad & lobster accented base and wonderful condition! Amazing condition here and can you possibly top those fabulous winged figures?? Possibly a mid to late 1800s table service item, perhaps used as a large open salt or sweet meats serving piece, or as the requisite French 'vide pooch' or 'empty pocket' into which one's jewelry and pocket watch would be deposited at bedside. Amazing from all angles, it's sure to be a decorative accent you'll love. Displayed with your French opaline & mother of pearl 'egg' shaped caskets and other items from the old Palais Royal boutiques of the 1700s to 1800s, this one lacks none of its original whimsey or charm. Impressive size, elegant French craftsmanship.
Very good to excellent condition. Possibly a slight bend or two to the bronze wire framework but, as you can see, no real notable damage and no repairs. No chips or cracks in the oversized mother of pearl half shell, the heavy black marble base plinth intact and with only a possible tiny nip here & there. See pictures for all measurements.
