Early 1900s Italian Murano Glass Epergne w/ Mirrored Base - 17"

This exquisite Murano blown-glass epergne, dating from the early 1900s, forms a sculptural centerpiece composed of three detachable trumpet vases surrounding a taller central flute, all rising from a circular mirrored base. The clear glass bodies shade softly to emerald at the crimped, ruffled rims, while the central flute is wrapped with a delicate rope-twist spiral. Scrolling glass leaves adorn the base around small brass fittings, adding to its graceful composition. The mirrored base shows light foxing and faint scratches, while minor surface wear and a delicate internal haze within the vases hint at their age and long history of display. Together with the small air bubbles characteristic of hand-blown craftsmanship, these details lend the piece an authentic patina and a softly timeworn charm.

An epergne is a tiered or branched centerpiece designed to hold flowers, fruit, or sweets, traditionally placed at the center of a dining table to create a sense of abundance and refinement. During the Belle Époque, such pieces became symbols of elegance and hospitality. Mouth-blown techniques perfected on Murano emphasized clarity, delicate color, and refined ornament, while detachable vases allowed for easy arrangement and cleaning. The mirrored base reflected candlelight and blooms, amplifying their beauty and creating a shimmering focal point at festive gatherings.

Place it at the center of a dining table with single-stem flowers or trailing greenery, where the mirrored base will double the arrangement and shimmer in candlelight. Equally striking on a console or mantel, it can be filled with delicate buds for freshness or left empty as a whimsical glass sculpture. Both rare and slightly theatrical, this epergne embodies the charm of a collector’s curiosity, a conversation piece that bridges elegance fantasy.