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Bronze vase with a brown patina, after a model by Claude Ballin*, the original of which adorns the gardens of the Palace of Versailles.
The handles are formed by seated sphinxes resting on shells housing lion heads holding a ring. The body is decorated with a woman's head framed by masculine medallions linked by a ribbon knot. All resting on a circular base.
*Claude Ballin, born in 1615 and died in 1678, was a renowned French goldsmith and sculptor of the 17th century. He is best known for being the official goldsmith of Louis XIV and for his major contribution to the decorative arts during the reign of the Sun King.
France, 19th century
Ref: JBHR9T065P