Object Description
Very large precious stone and vermeil flower model
Continental, 20th Century
Height 36cm, width 17cm, depth 17cm
This beautiful objet d’art is in the form of a very unusual and large flower model. Made from a selection of luxurious materials, the piece most likely depicts a fully bloomed tulip.
The flower is placed in an elegant, frosted rock crystal base, an unusual material choice for an object of this type. The vase is carved with flowing motifs as if representing the movement of water inside a vase. A vermeil stem emerges from the vase as well as superbly carved nephrite leaves. The dark green tones paired with exceptionally well carved details seem as if the petals are soft to the touch.
The top of the superbly cast step terminates in the most important part of the piece, the flower head. Another semi-precious stone, rhodochrosite has been masterfully crafted to create several exceptionally detailed petals. The white and pink patterns, naturally occurring on the stone mimic the patterns found on tulips, further adding to the flower model’s real-life appearance. Most petals also feature a thin, white detailing which adds a further texture and feature to the piece. The centre of the flower is occupied by a silver-gilt pistil and a vibrant purple gemstone acting as the stigma.
Each of the semi-precious stones has deeper spiritual meanings, for example, rock crystal is associated with new beginnings and nephrite with strength.
This magnificent flower model is a very attention-grabbing decorative piece making it a desirable addition to one’s collection.