
Thursday 15 September 2005
Justin Murphy is out in the auction room. Under The Hammer this week is an Epergne.
Described by the auctioneer as "a piece of Victorian tizz", an an Epergne is a large table centrepiece that has a frame with extended arms that support holders to carry sweets, flowers or fruit.
A symbol of wealth and prestige, Epergnes can be extremely delicate and are quite rare. This piece probably comes from the Nailsea Glassworks which were established in 1788 and closed in 1874.
Epergnes were also made from brass, silver and gold.
It sells for $980.00 at auction.