DESCRIPTION: I believe this to be an antique French Empire cobalt blue crystal or glass jardiniere bowl in a gilded ormolu bronze openwork frame featuring intricately ormolu detailing of classical Napoleonic motifs including griffins, caduceus and symbol of figures painting and sculpting fine art. HALLMARKS: 1. Bronze is hallmarked on the bottom with letters “S” and “F” with a star in the middle and three stars below along with “EZIN” and “Francia” just to the right and the number "1" on the other side. See last three pictures for closeups. 2. Crystal/Glass bowl does not have any hallmarks. CONDITION: 1. Bronze is in very good overall with minor imperfections and patina/dark spots. 2. Crystal/Glass bowl is in very good condition with no chips but does show numerous surface scratches inside and on the bottom along with some rubbing wear on the side from sitting in the bronze frame. MY RESEARCH: I did find the exact on Proantic.com that sold for $1650 euro (see attached link below) but I do not believe they have the correct artist, may be wrong and that is why I am sending all this to you. :-) LINK: https://www.proantic.com/en/938802-centerpiece-fruit-bowl-saglier-victor-planter.html
10 3/8” long x 6 7/8” wide x 3 1/4” high
Hi Lisa,
Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.
Charles-Louis Ezin was a Parisian artisan active around 1844, specializing in the creation of gilt bronze objects. While detailed records about his life and works are scarce, his craftsmanship places him among the skilled bronziers of mid-19th century Paris—a period renowned for its flourishing decorative arts scene.
During this era, Paris was a hub for artisans producing high-quality bronze items, including furniture mounts, clocks, candelabras, and other decorative pieces. Artisans like Ezin contributed to the rich tradition of French bronze work, which was characterized by intricate designs and exceptional gilding techniques.
Although Ezin may not be as widely recognized as some of his contemporaries, such as Henry Dasson or Victor Paillard, his work would have been part of the broader movement that defined French decorative arts in the 19th century. Collectors and historians interested in this period often seek out pieces from lesser-known artisans, appreciating their unique contributions to the art form.
Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:
An Antique French Louis XVI style Cobalt Blue Crystal and Gilt Bronze Centerpiece Bowl
Mark of Charles-Louis Ezin in Paris, France, late 19th Century
Of oval section, the body with stylized waterleaf top and lower borders around a classical frieze of winged griffons, artistic figures and Classical decorative motifs, stamped "CL Ezin" "Paris" and "S*F" . Also marked "1". With cobalt liner
3-1/4 inches high, 10-3/8 inches long, 6-7/8 inches wide
CONDITION: This centerpiece bowl appears to be in very good condition
PROVENANCE: Unknown
Fair market value: $ 800-1,200*
Retail value: $1,500-2,500
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.
Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, or questions/concerns, and thank you again for using Mearto.
~ Delia
Hi Delia,
Thank you for the update. I'm a bit confused though... you mention the bronze is stamped "CL Ezin" "Paris" and "S*F" which is incorrect. When I submitted this appraisal I was very detailed about the hallmarks and said "Bronze is hallmarked on the bottom with letters “S” and “F” with a star in the middle and three stars below along with “EZIN” and “Francia” just to the right and the number "1" on the other side." See last three pictures for closeups. The reason I am submitting these appraisals is because I need to be extremely accurate when listing my items, that is my reputation. Can you please correct this?
Lisa,
My expert (formerly with 25 years at Christie's) couldn't locate the identity of the "S*F" mark but said it was probably someone working for CL Ezin. If you do appraisals you will know that sometimes there is missing information. The "1" likely indicates that this was one of a set of multiple centerpieces and I've now updated this appraisal to include the "1"
Delia
Hi Delia,
Of course. I appreciate your help on this and look forward to hearing what you find out.
Thanks again and have a wonderful day.
Lisa