Superb Black Ground Vase

This is a really superb vase made in the Paris region of France in the early 19th century possibly by Jacob Petit. Probably one of the greatest pieces in this style I have come across. It has an oval shape to it with a intertwined gilded serpent handle to either side with a white & gold shell and scroll design under it. The top edge and about 1.5 up from the bottom has a raised "pearl" chain design all around that is gilded as well. The rest of the peice has a black ground color one rarely sees. One side has a musical design type arrangement hanging from a blue ribbon to it including a guitar, a french horn, some sheet music, etc. with three necklaces in gold and silver hanging from the ends. These look 3D in nature and the designs are partially raised which adds to the effect. There is a garland design that gives it more depth. The whole thing reminds me of Mardi Gras! The other side has a really nice polychrome floral design to it surrounded by gold scrolls and leaves all with raised elements to them. It really is a stunning piece! The piece is in great condition with wear to the gold trim of the top inside edge as well as to the bottom edge and handle and a couple of scratches to the black ground towards the bottom edge but it displays superbly! The piece is not marked except for an incised line to the underside but that is typical to Vieux Paris makers of this period. The entire piece is 7.75 inches tall, 8 inches wide (with the handles sticking out another half an inch on either side) and 4.25 inches deep. Please email me for more information or other pictures.