A gilt-bronze, marble and champlevé tazza by Ferdinand Barbedienne, Paris, Napoleon III circa 1870

with scrolling handles and antheneum decoration to the sides on a flared base

Very good condition with some wear and stains to the gilt bronze. The interior surface of the tazza has some light scratches.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

In 1830 Ferdinand Barbedienne (1810-1892) founded one of the most productive and respected bronze foundries.  From around 1860 to the 1880's Barbedienne was experimenting with champlevé and cloisonné enamels to achieve a production technique that would compete with the flood of oriental imports from Japan. There is a champlevé enamel and gilt-bronze vase and tripod by Barbedienne in the Victorian & Albert Museum (8026-1862) which was purchased from the London 1862 Exhibition, during which he exhibited several enamel objects.