Jardinière is the French word for a decorative planter to hold flowers or plants. For the most part, they were used inside a home. Jardinières range from the very simple in design and style to quite elaborate.

 

Imari is a type of richly decorated Japanese porcelain first shipped to the West by European traders in the 17th century. It was produced in the town of Arita, in the Hizen region, during the Edo period (1603-1868).  Westerners were captivated by the color and vibrant decoration often featuring flowers, birds and landscapes. By the 19th century, had gained such popularity that some of the leading factories in English - Worcester and Royal Derby, to name two - began production to keep up with demand, creating their own version of traditional design. Imari porcelain is exquisite, elegant and of high quality.  Western buyers favored unusual shapes and intricate patterns. colors are rich red, blue and gold, with occasional touches of green. The porcelain is highly collectible and admired for its beauty.

 

Bronze d'oré, also known as ormolu or gilt bronze, was a decorative finish used on luxury furnishings in the 18th and 19th centuries. An application of finely ground high carat gold and mercury amalgam was placed on objects of bronze. When subjected to extremely high heat, the mercury evaporated, leaving behind a lustrous coating of gold.

 

Gilt-bronze trim was used to protect furniture from damage and to emphasize form, and to mount beautiful objects such as candelabra, clocks, lamps, pedestals and porcelain vases.