{"product_id":"victorian-gilt-bronze-tussie-mussie-holder-with-flirting-mirrors-and-mother-of-pearl-handle-circa-1860-1880","title":"Victorian Gilt Bronze Tussie Mussie Holder with Flirting Mirrors and Mother of Pearl Handle. Circa 1860–1880","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAn exceptionally romantic Victorian-era tussie mussie, beautifully crafted in gilt bronze with intricate floral detailing and an elegant carved mother of pearl handle. This exquisite antique bouquet holder features two “flirting mirrors,” a whimsical and highly sought after detail used during the Victorian era to steal discreet glances across crowded ballrooms and candlelit social gatherings.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTussie mussies became fashionable accessories among Victorian women during the mid to late 19th century, designed to hold small hand-tied bouquets known as posies or nosegays. In the language of flowers, every bloom carried symbolic meaning, allowing emotions, affection, and even secret messages to be communicated silently. These ornate holders protected delicate gloves and gowns from moisture while elevating a simple bouquet into an object of luxury and refinement. Some women also used them while lifting the hems of their skirts slightly above muddy streets or puddles, making them both beautiful and practical accessories of the era.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis particular example is especially enchanting, adorned with vibrant turquoise cabochons and small green jeweled accents nestled within elaborate floral mounts. The gilt bronze frame has a wonderfully sculptural quality, while the luminous mother of pearl handle curves gracefully into an elegant flourish at the base. The original mirrors show age and silver loss consistent with time, giving the piece a haunting, dreamlike quality that only authentic Victorian objects possess.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA rare and poetic relic that feels less like a decorative object and more like something preserved from a forgotten romance. An extraordinary piece for collectors of Victorian antiques, vanity accessories, curiosities, or anyone drawn to objects layered with symbolism, femininity, and old-world charm.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMeasures approximately 6” long.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWe sell vintage and antique items that may show signs of wear consistent with age and use. Please review pictures closely. All sales are final.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Estate Sale Edit","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48219153367281,"sku":"ESE-00535","price":2200.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0789\/8644\/5041\/files\/DD0B3B1D-B894-44B1-83E7-37EBA0A82482.jpg?v=1779812517","url":"https:\/\/estate-sale-edit.myshopify.com\/products\/victorian-gilt-bronze-tussie-mussie-holder-with-flirting-mirrors-and-mother-of-pearl-handle-circa-1860-1880","provider":"Estate Sale Edit","version":"1.0","type":"link"}