Gilt Bronze and Marble Putti Centerpiece, Napoleon III

This exquisite centerpiece from the Napoleon III period beautifully echoes the grandeur of the Empire style, dating to the late 19th century. The piece elegantly combines finely chased, fire-gilt bronze mounts with a shallow, sweeping bowl crafted from heavily veined dark green and black marble. The architectural foundation features a fluted, trefoil base, from which three fully sculptural cast putti emerge, their loins delicately draped in oak leaves. Acting as graceful caryatids, these figures support a circular bronze ring adorned with neoclassical friezes that securely holds the marble bowl. The underside of the bronze mounting bears the stamped monogram "EH". The piece displays a charming, age-appropriate patina with slight, natural fading to the gilding, adding to its authentic antique character.