An original & complete Edwardian pedestal compote c.1909 T his elegant pedestal fruit or dessert compote (c. 1909) is a fine piece for a period dining room. In 1853, Daniel Straub, a miller from Geislingen, joined forces with the Schweizer Brothers to form the "Metallwarenfabrik Straub & Schweizer" in Geislingen. In 1880 a merger between Straub & Sohn and "Ritter & Co.", Esslingen led to the forming of a public limited company under the name of Wurttembergische Metallwarenfabrik. At the time of the merger, Ritter & Co.'s Esslingen factory was already using the electroplating method of silver plating and had the more modern production facilities at its disposal. Straub's company, on the other hand, was the more profitable of the two. Under the direction of Albert Mayer the WMF studio was influenced by the art nouveau style. The product range was modernized and considerably extended. In 1905 WMF acquired a majority holding of the Cologne company Orivit AG, which manufactured products from "Orivit", a tin alloy. This beautifully poured and gilded pedestal compote is a wonderful example of the period and is in excellent condition save for expected areas of rubbing and pitting (mainly to the interiors of the two metal bowls). However, this is entirely normal in a 100 year old antique which has been used and enjoyed for a century. Amazingly, the original etched and partially frosted glass bowl is still intact and aside from a couple of minute nicks to the rim and one or two air bubbles, it is as new. The original glass bowl which sits beneath the larger glass bowl is in immaculate condition and is used traditionally to hold ice which cools the fruit or dessert at the dining table. It would be equally as striking were one to fill the bowls with Oasis and fresh flowers. A special and quality piece, this gorgeous compote is a delightful find for those who adore the traditions of a bygone era. Measurements: 20cm (height) x 31cm (length) x 21cm (width) As most of my items are pre-owned they are rarely in pristine condition unless described as such. Whilst I will detail relevant flaws, I may not mention the very minor wear and tear commensurate with age as these are to be expected. If you are uncertain about an item, please do not hesitate to ask questions as it would be my pleasure to assist you. You are most welcome to view my other items for sale! Please make contact & payment within 3 DAYS of receiving an invoice. Thank you very much. Security Notice If you are contacted by e-mail by someone claiming to be "mont_de_saints" (or any other seller) with an invitation to do business outside of eBay, please report it immediately to spoof@ebay.com.au as these offers are not authentic. Always check your eBay "My Messages" to confirm that any Second Chance Offers or official eBay messages you receive are genuine. Please check a seller's feedback and star rating to make certain that they consistently provide quality products and service. Together, we can keep eBay safe and fun! Returns Returns are accepted and refunds given upon my receipt of an item in its original condition prior to postage/shipping and offered on the proviso that the item has been misrepresented. Registered insurance is encouraged to cover loss or damage during transit. I value your custom and am always happy to discuss an issue or a reasonable request for a refund. Please feel free to contact me should a problem arise with your purchase. Postal insurance, whilst optional is encouraged to cover loss or damage during transit. I am happy to combine items where possible. Collection Collection is most welcome from Selby, Mt Dandenong (Melway 124 A10) if you prefer local pick-up. My Auctions e-Mail Me Add Me to Your Favourites My Feedback