A magnificent pair of French Empire ormolu cassolettes of very fine quality. The cassolettes retain the original fire or mercury gilt ormolu. These cassolettes can be used entirely for decoration as lidded vases or the lids can be turned over and they can then be used as candleholders. On bun feet with a triform base with applied mounts the cassolettes rise up on fine hoof footed legs terminating in a goats head. A central stem holds up the bowl and a central ring helps hold the legs firm. The bowl is beautifuly decorated with knurling and the lid terminates in a berry finial while the cover is superbly hand cut, fretted and decorated with poincing. When turned over the lid reveals a candleholder. France circa 1805. 11.5 inches by 4.5 inches diameter (28.75 cms by 11.25 cms)