Antique Victorian Bronze and Hand Painted Milk and Opaline Glass Epergne Centerpiece. The exquisite central column supports two shell-shaped bowls with crimped edges on either side decorated with Art Nouveau leaf, vine, and dragonfly images. A matching bowl in the upper middle segment of the column is further capped by a trumpet vase in the very top which can be taken out of the supportive column for easy cleaning. 

Condition: The two bottom bowls can turn side to side. Column bent very slightly in upper middle area. Minor loss to paint. Original patina. Bottom concrete weight piece has separated but is intact. 

Provenance: Acquired by consignor's great-grandmother from a Georgia estate in the 1910s. 

Size: 21 x 11 x 23 1/2 in. 

An epergne is an ornate table centerpiece, originally made from silver in the 18th Century but expanding to be made from metal, glass, or porcelain by the Victorian period, featuring a large central bowl set on small feet. Radiating from this main basin are two to seven branches that support smaller baskets, dishes, or candleholders. The term likely originates from the French word épargne, meaning “saving,” as the centerpieces saved dinner guests the trouble of passing dishes around the table. Historically used to serve side dishes, fruits, or sweetmeats, they remain versatile containers for items like finger foods, chips, and dips. Beyond serving food, epergnes also function as decorative design objects used to hold candles, flowers, or seasonal ornaments.

The two bottom bowls can turn side to side. Column bent very slightly in upper middle area. Minor loss to paint. Original patina. Bottom concrete weight piece has separated but is intact. 

All items are sold AS IS. Lot and condition details are for descriptive purposes only. Sarasota Estate Auction is not responsible for errors and/or omissions of condition. The absence of a condition report does not imply that the lot is perfect or free from wear, flaws, or characteristics of age. Please bid according to your own expertise, or request any additional information and/or photographs you deem necessary.