Austrian silver-gilt, agate, and semi-precious stone tazza

Austrian silver-gilt, agate, and semi-precious stone tazza
Austrian, Late 19th Century
Height 8.5cm, diameter 6.5cm
 
This charming miniature tazza comprises a silver-gilt frame topped by a fluted agate bowl.  The bowl itself is of a shallow, circular design, and rests within a pierced foliate support. The main body is formed of a four-part horse carousel, also featuring a pierced embellishment. Within the centre of the carousel sits a bird finial, wonderfully peeking out through the openwork design.
 
The bird is enclosed by an openwork shield fence, which sits atop the circular base. The base itself features further ornamentation, with a skillful trefoil arch repoussé design. The composition stands on four cherub feet.
 
The entire model is applied with sporadic circular semi-precious stones, including garnets and turquoise opals.
 
Showcasing the skill of Viennese makers in the late 19th century, this superb piece would be a wonderful decorative addition to any home interior space.