Napoleon III Rococo Revival Crystal & Brass Bonbonniere - Lobed Bowl with Foliate Pedestal

Design & Inspiration

There is a particular pleasure in placing something on a side table that rewards a second look. This bonbonniere — a lidded crystal sweetmeat jar on a cast brass pedestal — belongs to that tradition of objects that exist at the intersection of utility and sculpture. Faithfully reproduced in the tradition of Napoleon III Rococo Revival design (1852–1870), it draws from the era's appetite for theatrical ornament: the lobed, melon-ribbed crystal bowl swells with confident volume, while the engraved brass collar rim at the lip adds a band of precisely worked foliate detail that anchors the glass in metal with quiet authority.

Materials & Craftsmanship

The bowl itself is pressed and faceted crystal glass — the vertical lobes catching and refracting light in a way that plain glass cannot. The lid mirrors the bowl's ribbed profile and terminates in a turned crystal finial, making the piece complete even when open beside it. Below, the cast brass pedestal is the work of a skilled hand: acanthus and scroll leaves radiate outward from a cylindrical stem, splaying into four scrolled feet that give the piece both visual lift and physical stability. The brass carries a warm aged finish consistent with the antique variants in the collection — neither bright nor dull, but settled and lived-in. A small glass side handle visible in one view suggests an alternate bonbonniere cup configuration, indicating the piece's versatility as a serving vessel.

Dimensions & Details

Dimensions: N/A — please contact us for exact measurements. Weight: 4 kg. The substantial weight reflects the quality of the cast brass components and the density of the crystal glass. Fragile elements are carefully packaged for safe delivery.

Handcrafted in Egypt

Every piece in the Brass & Wood collection is handcrafted in Egypt by artisans trained in classical European decorative techniques. The cast brass components are individually finished by hand, and the crystal glass elements are inspected for clarity and precision before assembly. This is not mass production — it is a deliberate act of reproduction, honoring a design tradition that once graced the sideboards of Parisian salons and imperial drawing rooms. Available in multiple brass finish variants to suit your interior palette.

Frequently Asked Questions

What materials is this bonbonniere made from?

The bowl and lid are crafted from faceted crystal glass; the pedestal base and collar rim are cast and finished brass. The combination of clear crystal and warm brass is characteristic of Napoleon III-era luxury tableware and decorative objects.

Is assembly required?

Minimal assembly is required — the crystal bowl rests on the brass pedestal and the lid sits in place without tools. The piece arrives securely packaged given its fragile crystal components.

Can this bonbonniere be customized?

Yes. The brass finish is available in multiple variants including Gold, Antique Gold, and Silver. For further customization inquiries, please contact the Brass & Wood team directly.