Silver and crystal centerpieces, often known as epergnes seem to have originated from France as the word derives from the the French 'epargne' meaning 'saving'. The idea being guests were saved the inconvenience of passing the dishes around.

An epergne is typically a large item, often approximately 16" high and consisting of a large centre bowl or basket with baskets or bowls either hanging or supported on arms rising from the base. The bowls would typically be used for fruit or sweetmeats.

The J A Campbell version also has the dual facility of being able to convert to a candelabra by inserting candles and sconces into the arms. These epergnes are made in 3, 4, and 5 arm versions and designed to fit into the matching contemporary Appetite collection. This works as well today as it did nearly 300 years ago.