MARK OF TIFFANY & CO., NEW YORK, CIRCA 1880

This inventive basket has all the characteristics of Edward Moore's Japanesque designs which won so much acclaim for Tiffany & Co. at the Paris Exposition of 1878. The introduction of the hand-hammered and matte-finished surface was a radical departure from the bright machine-polished finishes that prevailed in the period. Also, the total integration of form and ornament was a major innovation in Moore's works, resulting in highly original shapes for traditional forms. This centerpiece, while described in Tiffany's pattern book as "Slipper form," actually is themed on water, and the overall shape as well as each element of the ornament creates the effect of swirling autumn leaves and pond life. Moore's interpretation of the Japanese techniques of applying colorful copper alloys was much admired in the period--by European and Japanese silver firms as much as Tiffany's American rivals.

Tiffany's pattern book indicates that there were at least three examples produced of this centerpiece model, described as "Centre Piece Slipper form Belmont." The name Belmont may refer to financier August Belmont, who commissioned the Belmont Race trophy from Tiffany's in 1897. It is possible that the centerpiece model was created for him and repeated for other clients. A second reference to this model is found in Tiffany's Hammering and Mounting Book #2 which lists the decoration for "Centre Piece #5922 (Maple Leaves, Seeds and Bugs) Belmont."

Another centerpiece of this form sold Christie's, New York, 21 January 2000, lot 292, illustrated along with Tiffany's pattern book. description.