Although the origin of cassolettes can be traced back to ancient Europe and Asia, it was not until the late 18th century that cassolettes began to develop the urn-like form seen on this pair of marble and gilt bronze cassolettes. Our pair was hand-carved circa 1880 from a striated marble featuring a wonderful palette of yellow, red, ochre, and cream. Gilt bronze elements adorn the beautiful marble, highlighted by a pair of animal heads on opposing sides, “Vases Aux Beliers” or rams/goat heads. Beneath the bovid animal is a pair of floral swags, each joined by a large, crinkle ribbon. Additional bronze embellishments include beading, inset crinkled ribbon and olive branch cartouches, and toupie feet with a ring of egg and dart. There is also a bronze pinecone finial and acanthus leaf cup that rises from a cluster of lanceolate leaves on top of each of the removable lids.

Cassolettes were once used to store perfume, allowing the scent to be disseminated by burning the oils or by dabbing a soaked piece of fabric directly onto the skin. Today, they are mostly used as decorative accessories, such as on a mantel or at the ends of a console table. Their inherent beauty will make them captivating and elegant additions to any room of the house.

CONDITION: Very good condition with fleabites and light scratches. Traces of minute restoration work, both old and more recent.