Antique French Gilt Bronze Photo Frame | Napoleon III, c. 1870–1890

Cadre Photo en Bronze Doré

7 5/8" H × 4 1/2" W; opening 5 3/4" × 3 3/4"

A Napoleon III gilt bronze tabletop photograph frame, France, c. 1870–1890. Cast throughout in gilt bronze with a laurel wreath crest and chapelet motif border, the wreath a signature motif of the Second Empire's decorative vocabulary. The original period hand-blown wavy glass is intact, with the subtle distortion and warmth that only genuine antique glass carries. The hinged bronze easel back is period and original. A vintage French Regency stripe fabric insert has been added by foundresse. 

Display on a writing desk, bedside table, or mantlepiece. Insert a period photograph, pressed botanical, or small watercolor with space around the edges to highlight the fabric. Or simply, leave as is. The wreath and chapelet border reads equally well in a classical interior or as a refined accent in a more minimal space.