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<I>Bouquet holder, filigree</I>

Silver filigree bouquet holder designed so that the stems of the flowers would extend its length so that the base would act as both vase and handle. The mouth is composed of eight petals which are composed of a network of volutes, swirls, foliate motifs, and concentric ellipses. They are worked in curvaceous forms incorporating spirals and tendrils to create floral motifs on the petals. There are two well defined holes opposite one another for a floral pin, which attaches to the base of the petals by a short length of ornate chain. The pin would be inserted through the vase to pierce the stems of a bouquet in order to secure the flowers inside the holder. The remainder of the vase is formed from these thin silver tendrils creating an open lacy aesthetic. The handle portion is filigree and the interior is open so it acts as part of the vase. When a bouquet is placed inside, the stems of the flowers would extend the length of the bouquet holder. From the tiny terminal ball of the holder hangs a stylized chain and ring of silver with unusual lacy detail matching the flower holder itself. The ring would allow the bouquet holder to be worn from the finger or on a chatelaine at the waist to free the lady's hands while dancing.

Date

ca.1870-1880

Type

Bouquet holders

Medium

Silver

Department

HAC

Institution

Smithsonian Gardens

Object number

hac_FJP.1987.219

Credit

Smithsonian Gardens, Horticultural Artifacts Collection. Gift of Frances Jones Poetker.