Victorian(?) bronze Palm tree Centerpiece

[Niels]

Hi!
I have found two centerpieces yesterday and I’m looking for some background information. This is the first one. It is about 46cm in height, made of bronze and carries a ceramic (porcelain?) plate on top. First question I have is, could this be an original piece? Or is it a reproduction from recent times? It does show some wear, but overall it is in perfect condition.
There was a British factory in the 19th century who made centerpieces like mine but none with the combination of ceramic plate and bronze carrier. The name of this factory is Elkington, Birmingham.
Any suggestion/ thoughts about this piece?

Thank you and kind regards,
Niels

[KC]

This "could" be a centerpiece....but it more resembles a Victorian Figural Calling Card Stand, also called a Victorian Figural Card Receiver!  The more ornate the more status one would have!

REALLY REALLY Like this piece!  It is absolutely beautiful. 

Newer reproductions would have had a screw in the top piece to mount it to the base.

Can you look over the base (outside and inside) with a magnifying glass and see if you can find any makers' marks?

[Niels]

This "could" be a centerpiece....but it more resembles a Victorian Figural Calling Card Stand, also called a Victorian Figural Card Receiver!  The more ornate the more status one would have!

REALLY REALLY Like this piece!  It is absolutely beautiful. 

Newer reproductions would have had a screw in the top piece to mount it to the base.

Can you look over the base (outside and inside) with a magnifying glass and see if you can find any makers' marks?

Thank you for the information. I didn't thought about a card stand but this could very well be it! Thanks also for the word 'epergne'  .

I've checked the base all over but unfortunately no markings...

[KC]

That card receiver could fetch well over $200 easy!  The palm trees and whippets are very unique in combination!

I am also looking for an antique "tazza".  

[KC]

Look what I just found:
http://www.prices4antiques.com/Centerpiece-Elkington-Co-Gilt-Bronze-Palm-Trees-Whippets-17-inch-E8996740.html

Not exactly like yours...but yours is much more.

Here is another one that sold for $674
http://www.skinnerinc.com/auctions/2554B/lots/719

[Niels]

Look what I just found:
http://www.prices4antiques.com/Centerpiece-Elkington-Co-Gilt-Bronze-Palm-Trees-Whippets-17-inch-E8996740.html

Not exactly like yours...but yours is much more.

Here is another one that sold for $674
http://www.skinnerinc.com/auctions/2554B/lots/719

Thank you KC. I've found them too. That's a lot more than what I paid for it :-).

[KC]

:-)   Great to hear!  What a find!