An exceptionally rare Charles II silver perfume burner,

of baluster form on three scroll feet,
the bulbous lower section decorated with openwork floral motifs,
the central section with curling leaf and vine designs rising
to stylised tulip openwork decoration,
the upper section terminating in flame finial,
each of the three sections detachable and separated
with twisted wirework divisions.

The Dutch floral influence is evident in the design of the burner.
During the Commonwealth period, Charles II and his exiled court
resided in France and the Low Countries. When the monarchy
was Restored in 1660, the returning aristocracy brought
continental influences with them.

Such perfume burners are extremely rare.
Similar examples are held in the Gilbert Collection and the Kremlin.

Literature:

Charles Jackson, An Illustrated History of English Plate, Fig. 255
Michael Clayton, Silver and Gold of Great Britain
and North America, pl. 397.
Charles Oman, Caroline Silver, pl. 74.


English or Dutch
Circa 1675

Height 20.5 cm