A mid-19th century French unmarked silver gilt mounted claret jug, probably Paris circa 1860 Napoleon III period. The ovoid shaped clear glass body with cut panelled arches. Silver gilt mounts to the foot and handle as well as lid. The base of shaped circular foot rim with reed and ribbon rim leading to swirling acanthus leaves to base of glass section. The upper mounts formed as acanthus leaves with pendent swags of laurel leaves, the hinged lid of conforming shape to the pouring lip surmounted by laurel wreath with acanthus terrace. The acanthus capped wish bone shaped handle with acanthus leaf terminal. Unmarked except for later French control mark. Height – 31.5 cm / 12.5 inches