An enamelled and gilded glass vase signed by Philippe-Joseph Brocard (fl.1865-96), France, dated 1879

of bulbous form with flattened sides, two loop handles at the shoulder, rising to a narrow trumpet-form mouth, on a spreading disc-form foot, decorated in polychrome enamels and gilt, the flattened sides with the entwined initials DBM(?) in white enamel in a gold roundel surrunded by arabesque scrolls repeated on the flanks, handles and shoulder

In very good condition, as viewed.
"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."

The patron, whose initials DBM(?) feature on the vase, remains unidentified. Little is known of Brocard's patrons, but a pair of vases of similar form to the present example and bearing the initials of the great English collector Alfred Morrison (1821-97) is in the collection of the Minneapolis Institute of Art (inv. no. 98.202.2.1).