French Napoleon III / Belle Époque Mother-of-Pearl and Gilt Metal Cigarette Holder on Alabaster Base
French Napoleon III / Belle Époque Mother-of-Pearl and Gilt Metal Cigarette Holder on Alabaster Base
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Additional Description: An exceptionally decorative and rare French tabletop cigarette stand, crafted in gilt metal and mounted with luminous mother-of-pearl panels, all resting on a carved alabaster base. The form is both sculptural and functional, featuring a circular openwork interior fitted with multiple small rings designed to hold individual cigarettes upright.
The exterior is arranged with six large oval mother-of-pearl panels, radiating outward like petals and catching the light with iridescent tones of cream, silver, and soft pastel hues. The gilt metal framework is finely cast in a rococo-revival style, with scrolling supports, floral motifs, and a pierced gallery base. At the center, a gracefully formed loop handle allows the piece to be easily lifted and passed—an essential feature for salon entertaining.
This type of object was designed for refined social settings, where cigarettes would be presented elegantly after dinner or during gatherings. The combination of luxurious materials and practical design reflects the height of French decorative arts during the late 19th century, when even everyday objects were elevated into objets de vertu.
Today, it serves as both a functional antique and a striking decorative centerpiece—ideal for use as a catchall, vanity display, or conversation piece.
Era: Late 19th century to early 20th century, circa 1880–1910
History: During the Napoleon III and Belle Époque periods, smoking accessories became an essential part of social ritual in Europe. French artisans produced elaborate cigarette holders, cigar stands, and table accessories in richly decorative materials such as mother-of-pearl, gilt bronze, and marble.
These objects were designed not only for use but for display—placed on tables, in salons, or on sideboards where guests could admire both their craftsmanship and their host’s taste. This example reflects that tradition, combining refined materials with a practical form meant for elegant entertaining.
Provenance: France
Materials: Mother-of-pearl shell, gilt metal, alabaster or marble base
Dimensions: TBD
Disclaimers: Good antique condition with age-appropriate wear. Expected patina and rubbing to gilt metal. Minor wear and natural irregularities to mother-of-pearl panels. Stone base shows scuffing, discoloration, and edge wear. Underside paint loss consistent with age and use.
Additional Description: An exceptionally decorative and rare French tabletop cigarette stand, crafted in gilt metal and mounted with luminous mother-of-pearl panels, all resting on a carved alabaster base. The form is both sculptural and functional, featuring a circular openwork interior fitted with multiple small rings designed to hold individual cigarettes upright.
The exterior is arranged with six large oval mother-of-pearl panels, radiating outward like petals and catching the light with iridescent tones of cream, silver, and soft pastel hues. The gilt metal framework is finely cast in a rococo-revival style, with scrolling supports, floral motifs, and a pierced gallery base. At the center, a gracefully formed loop handle allows the piece to be easily lifted and passed—an essential feature for salon entertaining.
This type of object was designed for refined social settings, where cigarettes would be presented elegantly after dinner or during gatherings. The combination of luxurious materials and practical design reflects the height of French decorative arts during the late 19th century, when even everyday objects were elevated into objets de vertu.
Today, it serves as both a functional antique and a striking decorative centerpiece—ideal for use as a catchall, vanity display, or conversation piece.
Era: Late 19th century to early 20th century, circa 1880–1910
History: During the Napoleon III and Belle Époque periods, smoking accessories became an essential part of social ritual in Europe. French artisans produced elaborate cigarette holders, cigar stands, and table accessories in richly decorative materials such as mother-of-pearl, gilt bronze, and marble.
These objects were designed not only for use but for display—placed on tables, in salons, or on sideboards where guests could admire both their craftsmanship and their host’s taste. This example reflects that tradition, combining refined materials with a practical form meant for elegant entertaining.
Provenance: France
Materials: Mother-of-pearl shell, gilt metal, alabaster or marble base
Dimensions: TBD
Disclaimers: Good antique condition with age-appropriate wear. Expected patina and rubbing to gilt metal. Minor wear and natural irregularities to mother-of-pearl panels. Stone base shows scuffing, discoloration, and edge wear. Underside paint loss consistent with age and use.