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Antique Putto Figural Tazza Gilt Pierced BasketTable Centerpiece - Rococo
A remarkable small figural decorative centerpiece featuring a standing putto supporting an elaborate pierced basket above his head. The basket is exceptionally detailed, with intricate openwork, radiating floral/starburst decoration beneath, beaded borders, scrolling framework, foliate ornament and finely modeled relief decoration throughout.
The piece has the character of a 19th-century European decorative-art object, likely within the French/Continental tradition of ornate gilt-metal centerpieces and tazza-form objects. Comparable 19th-century decorative works include putti supporting elaborate baskets and figural tazzas. The exact maker, country of manufacture and date of this unmarked example have not been established, so those details are offered as informed observations rather than definitive attribution.
An especially interesting feature is the construction. The putto and basket appear to have been separately cast and joined at three support points, with the basket contacting the putto at both hands and the top of the head. Examination under magnification shows smooth, flowed filler-metal joints consistent with an original brazed or hard-soldered assembly. This appears to be original construction rather than a later repair.
The underside of the basket is particularly impressive and is fully decorated rather than being left as an unfinished utilitarian surface. The central radiating starburst/flower design is surrounded by elaborate pierced openwork, demonstrating the extraordinary attention given to areas that would normally receive little attention.
The object is completely nonmagnetic. The exact underlying alloy has not been conclusively determined, so it is being described conservatively as gilt-tone nonferrous cast metal rather than definitively as bronze.
This is a highly unusual decorative object with considerable visual presence despite its compact size. It would make an exceptional addition to a collection of antique European decorative arts, ormolu-style objects, figural bronzes, tazzas, centerpieces or putto/cherub objects.
Measurements: Approximately 6\" tall x 2.73\" diameter at base.
Basket opening: Approximately 1.76\" inside diameter.
Weight: 11.4 oz.
Please study all photographs and the 360° video carefully. The photographs intentionally include detailed views of the basket interior, underside, construction points and decorative surfaces so the intricate workmanship and condition can be fully appreciated.
Country of Origin / Attribution Note:
No country-of-origin mark, maker\'s mark, or documented provenance was found on the piece. Based on its modeling, decorative vocabulary, construction characteristics, and comparison with documented period examples, French or Continental European manufacture is considered probable. France has been selected in the required Country of Origin field based on the strongest available attribution; however, the country of manufacture is not definitively documented. We welcome observations, additional research, or other documented information that may provide more conclusive evidence regarding the country of manufacture, maker, or history of this piece.
SPECIFICATIONS Dimensions 6\" H x 2.73\" base diameter Weight 11.4 oz Condition
There are areas of finish wear and darker patinated surfaces, particularly on exposed high points and recessed areas. Minor surface marks and imperfections are present throughout, consistent with the age and nature of an intricately cast and assembled decorative object.
No maker\'s mark or hallmark was found despite careful examination of all accessible surfaces.
Please review the photographs and 360° video for the most accurate representation of condition.
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Extreme care will be taken during packaging and shipping. Items tend to ship with an excessive amount of padding. Dickson Antiques strives to use recycled packaging materials wherever possible. Buyer will receive a selection of tasty imported candies. A tracking number will be provided prior to shipment.
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© Dickson Antiques 2026 Disclaimer Item condition is reflected in the listing photos. Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Dimensions: 6\" H x 2.73\" base diameter
Weight: 11.4 ozExceptional figural putto tazza/centerpiece with an elaborate pierced basket, scrolling framework, beaded borders, foliate relief and beautiful starburst openwork beneath. Appears to be a 19th-century European decorative-art object, likely French/Continental in tradition, but exact maker, country and date are unconfirmed. Basket and putto appear separately cast and joined at three original brazed/filler-metal contact points. Completely nonmagnetic. No maker\'s mark found. Detailed photos and 360° video included.
