Delicate Empire French Silver Drageoir By JN Boulanger~Sold~

Delicate and lovely Antique French Silver and Crystal ‘Drageoir’ by ‘Maitre Orfèvre’ Jean Nicolas BOULANGER

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

The theme of this Drageoir is based on a dancing allegory.

The body is tulip shaped with large Palm fronds decorating it below the handles, while on each side three delicately carved dancers dressed in the Antique Greek style with flowing ‘Togas’, dance each holding a different instrument.
The center figure holds a tambourine, while the each on the right and left side hold sistrums.
The draping of their ‘Togas’ are just beautifully rendered!
The Handles are decorated with acanthus leaves sprouting out of cornocuppias.

The lower fringe of the piece shows a floral garland.
The pedestal is square, resting on four winged lions’ paws.
The ‘Frétel’ (or finial) is very rare showing 2 snakes intertwined, resting on a nest of acanthus leaves.

The bowl insert is clear cut crystal, in perfect shape, no dents or marks.

The Hallmark is Poincon Au Deuxieme Coq (2nd rooster) -1st title (950/1000) – 1809 -1819- Paris

Jean Nicolas BOULANGER’s Makers Mark shows a JNB topped by a ‘pestle’.
He registered his mark in 1783 then again after the Revolution re registered in 1798.
His offices were located 9 Cour Neuf du Palais in Paris.

H: 8.85"W: 4.84/L7.28"D: 4.52"Reference number: D-146