Puiforcat: Vintage Vermeil Sterling & Crystal Bottle Cooler Ice Bucket

Stunning gold washed .950 sterling silver mounted crystal bottle cooler. Decorated in french Empire style, the base is partially fluted, banded and boasts bell flowers and laurel sprays on a textured ground. The rim is pierced repousse bell flowers with a 'beaded' edge. The handle is a beautiful confection of 'mounted pearls', and there is fine sterling silver insert to keep the bottle above the melted ice. The crystal, likely Baccarat, is lavishly decorated with frosted textured swaths adorned with bows, floral swags and gold accents; the crystal is also partially fluted at the base. The bottom is cut in a star pattern. Condition is excellent, no flaws noted. A very elegant table accessory by one of France's premier master silver smiths.

Dimensions: Combined height nearly 10" The bucket is 6.25" tall, the top 5.75" diameter, the base 4.25" diameter, and the handle is 7" long, 3.75" tall.

Marks: .950 sterling guarantee, maker's punch for Emile Puiforcat. Difficult to date exactly; likely early 1900's. Calling it 'vintage'.