Umbrella stand, brass, 1890s ca, English

This antique umbrella stand has been gently cleaned while respecting the aged patina. This umbrella stand is in the aesthetic movement style which flourished in britain between 1860-1900. The design movement was a reaction to the industrial age intended to bring beauty to everyday objects. Aesthetic artists drew inspiration from various cultures & periods, in this example from ancient greek art, with the decorative sunflower pattern on the brass. The slender classical form & elegant proportions make this piece well sized for any entrance. It would complement a range of interiors such as antique, arts & crafts, traditional, hollywood regency or contemporary. The design consists of a rectangular container in solid wood covered with a solid brass sheet. The brass sheet continues along the sides to the back. On the reverse there is the original antique metal backplate in black enamel. The brass frame has interesting & unique decorations. The background has the traditional hammered effect. The surface is divided in three areas by two portions of solid brass flat banding, fitted with decorative round brass tacks. The middle portion has an oversized embossed sunflower with a central geometric fleur-de-lis pattern. The sunflower symbolizes lasting happiness & adoration, but furthermore something that is much bigger & brighter than themselves. Traditionally the lily flower was used in ornamentation to represent the french crown, it was meant to signify the power of the monarch and his purity of rule.medieval symbols such as this were used during the aesthetic movement for romantic effect. Being handcrafted there is slight asymmetry of the piece & minor variations in decoration. This antique umbrella stand is in good condition for its age. The stand is very stable and has a good weight. The antique patina has been preserved. The wooden frame is sound with no missing parts. The metal surfaces overall are in good condition with a warm age patina adding character.