Designed to be displayed on a table or mantel, this brass cachepot with coat of arms and lions is from France. Hand-hammered in the 1800’s, the cachepot was worked from the reverse side in a process known as repousse that results in low relief design.

Beneath the rolled rim that surrounds the opening is a pair of lion mascarons with circular loop handles. In between the lions are two distinct cartouches: a vase overflowing with fruit and on the opposite side, a heraldic display. A pair of oval shields rest beneath the cuirass and helmet of a set of armor in front of a curled leaf margent. The escutechoen on the left has a fluted background beneath a chevron and three florets, while the other is charged with three bends over a fleur de lys on a fluted background. A thick ring of gadrooning encircles the base of the cachepot, which is embellished with a band of roundels.

The 19th century French cachepot is gold with a lustrous patina, making it a beautiful decorative accessory. Its original use was as an indoor planter, but it could also be used as a wine cooler in a bar area or as a utensil holder in the kitchen.

CONDITION: Good antique condition with fleabites and minor cavitations, both commensurate with age and use. Light buildup to the exterior and some verdigris to the interior.