Jeweled Jar Appraisal

Victorian-Style Jeweled Covered Potpourri Jar or Censer

This exquisite item appears to be a Victorian-style covered potpourri jar or possibly a censer, featuring a heavily embellished metalwork body set upon a ribbed glass base. The upper portion is crafted from what seems to be brass or bronze with a rich, antique-gold patina, intricately cast with rococo-inspired scrolling filigree and floral motifs. There are numerous cabochon and faceted glass 'jewels' or rhinestones embedded within the metalwork, exhibiting a wide array of colors including reds, blues, greens, yellows, ambers, and opalescent whites. These stones vary in size and shape, adding to the item's opulent aesthetic. The metalwork is openwork at the top, suggesting it might have been designed to allow the fragrance of potpourri to diffuse or smoke from incense to escape. The base is made of deep cranberry or ruby-red glass, molded with distinct vertical ribs or flutes that radiate outwards from the center, providing a sturdy and decorative foundation. The overall condition appears to be good for its age, though some wear to the metal patina and minor surface scratches on the glass are likely. The multifaceted 'jewels' show some slight variations in their settings and possibly a few minor chips or abrasions consistent with age and handling. This piece evokes the grandeur and decorative excess typical of the late 19th or early 20th century, suggesting an age consistent with the Victorian or Edwardian periods, possibly a revival piece. The craftsmanship, though elaborate, points to a mass-produced decorative item of quality rather than a unique handmade artisan piece.