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Pierre-Philippe Thomire Wall Lights and Sconces

French, 1751-1843

Sculptor Pierre-Philippe Thormire was one of the greatest gilt-bronze casters of the 18th and 19th centuries. His elaborate pieces and decorative objets d’art represented the finest examples of Neoclassical style. He had such patrons as Louis XVI, Napoleon, Charles X and countless members of the European aristocracy.

Born in Paris in 1751, Thomire trained as a sculptor at the Académie de Saint-Luc under master sculptors Augustin Pajou and Jean-Antoine Houdon. However, he decided to follow his father’s more lucrative profession as a bronze caster. Thomire trained in the workshop of famed gilder Pierre Gouthière, under whom he learned the skills of chasing and gilding, particularly “dorure au mat,” which produces a satin-like matte gilding finish. 

Thomire was named a maître-fondeur in 1772 and established his own business in 1775. His reputation as a leading gilt metal manufacturer grew, especially among French nobles and the monarchy. The year he opened his workshop, he collaborated on the decoration of the coronation coach for Louis XVI, which was followed by royal commissions throughout the 1780s. 

Thomire used his skills during the French Revolution to make arms and ammunition. He also kept creating gilt-bronze objects, such as ormolu mounts for Sèvres porcelain. In a time of upheaval, his business thrived while others foundered and went bankrupt.

In 1804, Thomire acquired the company of decorative arts dealer Martin-Eloi Lignereux. This enabled him to sell furniture, Sévres porcelain and other decorative objects, like candle holders, wall lights and centerpieces. In 1809, he was appointed the engraver for the Emperor and the official furniture supplier to Napoleon.

Shortly after, Thomire entered into a partnership with three businessmen, and the company became Thomire, Duterme et Cie. In 1815, the firm was renamed Thomire et Cie after Duterme left the business. 

At 72, Thomire retired, leaving his two sons-in-law, Louis-Auguste-César Carbonelle and André-Antoine Beauvisage, to run the company. He continued to sculpt and exhibit at the Salon art exhibition until 1834. 

Thomire’s pieces are in permanent collections in museums throughout Europe, including the Louvre, the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Royal Collection Trust.

On 1stDibs, discover a range of antique Pierre-Philippe Thomire decorative objects, lighting and serveware.

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Creator: Pierre-Philippe Thomire
Set of Eight French 19th Century Neoclassical Ormolu Two Arm Sconces
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A charming and high quality complete set of eight French 19th century Neo-Classical ormolu two arm sconces, attributed to Pierre-Philippe Thomire. Each sconce is centered by an elega...
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19th Century French Neoclassical Antique Pierre-Philippe Thomire Wall Lights and Sconces

Materials

Ormolu

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Pierre-philippe Thomire wall lights and sconces for sale on 1stDibs.

Pierre-Philippe Thomire wall lights and sconces are available for sale on 1stDibs. These distinctive items are frequently made of ormolu and are designed with extraordinary care. There are many options to choose from in our collection of Pierre-Philippe Thomire wall lights and sconces, although white editions of this piece are particularly popular. Many of the original wall lights and sconces by Pierre-Philippe Thomire were created in the neoclassical style in france during the 19th century. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider wall lights and sconces by and Jacques Adnet. Prices for Pierre-Philippe Thomire wall lights and sconces can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these items begin at $54,500 and can go as high as $54,500, while a piece like these, on average, fetch $54,500.

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