Rococo

Rococo is an artistic movement in French design originating in the 18th century after Baroque. It is notable for asymetrical styles and tended to be over-ornamented. The name is derived from the French words rocaille and coquille rock and shell, both prominent motifs in this decoration.

Bronze doré

A French 18th and 19th Century gilding technique of applying an amalgam of fine, high-carat gold with mercury to copper, brass, or most commonly bronze objects. The bronze is exposed to high heat in a kiln burning off the mercury leaving a thin gold coat behind that is adhered to the metal. Commonly used by the craftsmen, Fondeurs-ciseleurs (founders and finishers), for decorative mounts in furniture, clocks, candelabras, and porcelain. Due to the health hazards of mercury, the technique waned into the late 19th Century and was replaced by electroplating.

Medallion

A circular or oval frame having within it an ornamental motif often resembling a metal or decorative design.

Pedestal

A tall, narrow base which supports a statue, lamp, vase or any decorative object. Usually treated with moldings at the top and a base block on the bottom. Without moldings it is called a plinth.