An unusual and rare 19th century example of an English epergne or centrepiece. Made by Richardson, Stourbridge, circa 1890 of hand blown and cased alabaster glass it is made in three sections and unscrews from the base. The tall central trumpet stands 19" tall and is surrounded by 6 horn shaped flower holders, each decorated with and applied coil of opaque cobalt glass modeled to resemble a serpent, highlighted with gilt scales. Each flower holder is removable for easy cleaning and it is both useful filled with flowers or stands alone as an elegant decorative piece.