Belle Époque Cut Crystal Bonbonniere with Brass Floral Collar & Acanthus Base

Design & Inspiration

Place this bonbonniere at the centre of a dining table and the room reorganises itself around it. The diamond-cut crystal bowl catches every passing beam of light and scatters it across the tablecloth in faceted constellations. The domed lid, topped with a solid crystal sphere, sits with the quiet authority of a piece that knows exactly what it is. Inspired by the decorative vocabulary of the Belle Époque — that brief, gilded interval between 1871 and 1914 when Parisian craftsmen pushed ornamental arts to their most elaborate peak — this piece faithfully reproduces the layered opulence that defined the era's luxury objects.

Materials & Craftsmanship

The bowl and lid are formed from hand-cut crystal, each facet ground to catch light at a distinct angle so the piece shifts in appearance as the day moves from morning to candlelight. Around the rim, a cast brass collar — finished to your chosen tone — carries a continuous garland of ginkgo-like leaves and blossoms, each petal individually worked. The stem is a solid crystal sphere that acts as a visual pivot between the decorative collar above and the brass base below. The footed base is cast brass, its skirt carved with overlapping acanthus leaves and scrolled feet — the same vocabulary found in the bronze mounts of the great Parisian bonbonnières of the 1880s. Every brass element is handcrafted in Egypt by artisans trained in classical European casting and chasing techniques.

Dimensions & Details

Weight: 4 kg. The substantial weight reflects the quality of the cast brass components and the density of the hand-cut crystal — both indicators of genuine craftsmanship rather than lightweight reproduction. Available in multiple brass finish variants to suit your interior palette.

Handcrafted in Egypt

Brass & Wood produces each piece in its Egyptian workshops, where artisans combine classical European casting techniques with generations of metalwork tradition. The brass components are individually cast, chased by hand, and finished to the selected tone before assembly. The crystal elements are precision-cut and polished. The result is a decorative object that earns its place on a table set for guests who notice quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

What materials is this bonbonniere made from?

The bowl and lid are hand-cut crystal. The collar, stem connector, and footed base are cast brass, hand-finished in your chosen tone (Antique Gold, Gold, or Silver).

Is the lid removable?

Yes — the domed crystal lid sits on the bowl and lifts off freely, making the piece fully functional as a candy dish, bonbonniere, or decorative covered bowl.

Can this piece be customised?

Yes. Brass & Wood offers customisation of the brass finish tone. Contact our team to discuss options for bespoke orders.