Rare Chrysanthemum sterling silver soup tureen. Made by Tiffany & Co. in New York. Lobed and oval bowl with scalloped and turned down scalloped rim. Bracket end handles and four splayed volute supports. Cover double domed with bracket finial. Dense and textural cast ornament in form of alternating flower heads and leaves applied to rim and cover shoulder. With dense profusion of same applied to feet and wrapped and mounted to handles. A big, drool-inducing centerpiece made soon after this historic Japonesque pattern was introduced in 1880. Fully marked including maker's stamp, pattern no. 5712, director's letter M (1873-91), and volume (5 1/2 qts).  
Overall dimensions: H 12 x W 18 x D 11 1/8 in. Heavy weight: 135 troy ounces. #BZ657