Lovely Antique French Silver Drageoir By D Garreau

A Lovely Antique French Silver and Crystal‘Drageoir’ by Denis GARREAU

In France we call them ‘Drageoir’ or ‘Confiturier’, but the only official name is a ‘Confiturier’ (Hence a Jam container), and it is widely thought that, originally, they were only used as Ceremonial Sugar Bowls.

The body of the ‘Drageoir’ is bowl shaped with large Palm Fronds decorating its surface for a total of 4 figural ‘Tableaux’.
The upper register is delicately decorated with a stylized grape garland.
The handles are another highlight of the piece ending in a Lioness’ head that carries incredible details and refinement. The lionesses’ heads connect to the rim by resting on a bundle of grapes. The handles are engraved with vines and grapes as well as acanthus leaves.
The ‘Frétel’ (or finial) showcases an Acorn.
The pedestal is square, resting on four round pearls of silver and connects to the main body by a wreath of laurel leaves. The main register of the pedestal is beautifully carved out in a delicate leaf pattern.
The bowl insert is in white crystal carved with ‘facettes’, it is original and in very good shape with only a very tiny scratch on the lower part.
It is a charming piece and the mirror image of another we wtill have in our collection.
Hence it can be bought as a pair, which is quite rare!

The Hallmark is ‘Tête De Veillard’ (or Michael Ange) -1st title – Hence 1819 -1838 – Paris

The Makers Mark is that of Denis GARREAU. It shows a D and a G topped by a ‘Navette’ (or boat)
Garreau was the successor of Ambroise MIGNEROT and specialized in larger decorational pieces (called in French Pieces De Forme), particularly “Drageoir’s” and Oil and Vinegar Cruet stands. His mark was created in 1817. His offices were located at 62 Rue du Temple in what is today the Marais area of Paris.

H: 10"W: 7.08"D: 4.72"Reference number: D-126