This is a beautiful 19th century Globe De Mariee wedding stand frame with red velvet cushion on original base. Traditionally, they were used for display of the brides wedding crown and or the couple's rings. The entire piece was then placed under a glass dome. The velvet cushion in the center was used to display these items.
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 red velvet cushion sits. This particular piece has leaves and flowers as well as a bird at the top holding a wreath. There are also multiple mirrors and the center one includes a painted floral. There is some slight aging to the mirrors but given they are over 125 years I am not surprised. The stand is 12.5" wide x 8.5" deep and stands about 18" 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.
