Tiffany & Co. Antique Sterling Silver Centerpiece Bowl with Moth Handles, New York City, NY, c. 1874

This is a beautiful centerpiece and wonderful example of Tiffany silver. The low bowl is attached to a circular stepped pedestal base. The exterior shimmers with a lovely matte finish to the surface. The central column is made from two pieces and is covered where they join by an applied horizontal band of three reeds with cross banding.

The shallow bowl also uses this same decoration on a larger scale to ornament the side of the body. The sides of the bowl have a graceful curve and flare outwards at the top . The edge has an applied border of fine swirling foliage design.

We have never seen these particular handles before. The classical shaped handles have a flat platform top upon which extraordinary moths are perched with wings partly spread. The details of these insects are stunning. They peer into the beautifully gilt interior of the bowl which has a domed center monogrammed 'ABH'.

This rare bowl is marked underneath 'TIFFANY & Co/ 3560 MAKERS 6717/ STERLING-SILVER/ 925-1000/ M'. It measures 12.5 inches across the handles, weighs 25.15 troy ounces and is in excellent antique condition.