Large centerpiece Gustav Gurschner K.K. Kunst-Erzgießerei ca. 1905

Gustav Gurschner was an important sculptor and bronzer of the Viennese Jugendstil. He was a member of the Vienna Secession and the Hagenbund. He designed a variety of Secessionist sculptures, candlesticks, vases and lighting fixtures.
This rare centerpiece perfectly embodies Gurschner’s eclectic style. With its two handles, the centerpiece is probably modeled after an antique drinking bowl, a kylix. As such, it can be seen as a reinterpretation of a more mundane vessel for refined home decor. At the same time, the silver-plated bowl has a certain sublimity, vaguely reminiscent of a sacred offering bowl, which is why it could also be seen as a secessionist interpretation of the legendary Holy Grail.
On the wall, medallions alternate circumferentially with stylized Celtic depictions of animals and cross symbols. Pearl bands and a meander-like decoration complement the lush ornamentation. The Celtic spiral patterns so characteristic of Gurschner are also not to be missed here and can be found above all at the foot of the centerpiece.