This is a beautiful 19th century Globe De Mariee wedding stand frame. Traditionally, they were used for display of the brides wedding crown and or couple's rings, and placed under a glass dome.
The circular area in the center originally held a velvet cushion which was used to display the bride's bridal crown. The cushion is long gone, but these display frames are so unique and have wonderful decorative uses.
This stand is in Wonderful condition. It is made with gilt over brass and features an ornate circular band at the top with an opening where the cushion would sit. This particular piece has leaves and flowers as well as a bird at the top holding a wreath. There is some slight aging to the mirrors but given they are over 125 years I am not surprised. The stand is 11" wide x 6" deep and stands about 20" tall. This is a beautiful piece of history.
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Fun Facts -
The tradition of the globe de mariée, or "marriage dome", began in France in the 1800's during the era of Napoleon III. Newlyweds would create these glass domes to preserve their wedding souvenirs and tell the story of their marriage. The domes were often placed in the formal dining room and could include items such as:
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The bride's crown: Made from fresh or wax orange blossoms, which symbolized innocence and purity
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Floral bouquets: Made from wax or fresh flowers
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Mirrors: Oval mirrors were considered good luck gifts from bridesmaids, and the number of small diamond-shaped mirrors represented the number of children the couple wanted. Rectangle mirrors represented the number of years between the couple's meeting and marriage. The trapezoidal mirror symbolized the perfect agreement.
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Ormolu cut-outs: Gold-plated cut-outs that could symbolize the couple The domes could also include other items, such as bisque dolls, medallions, and historical ephemera. The couple and their guests could choose items that told their story. During the 19th-century French Belle Époque period, the globe de mariée became a cherished tradition that symbolized marital bliss and prosperity.