Pair of French Early 19th Century Gilt Bronze Candelabra

Pair of French gilt bronze candlesticks three-light candleholder. France, 19th century.   

Pair of three-arm gilt bronze sconces each with arrows extending from a central patinated bronze figural plaque, France, Early 19th century.

These magnificent candelabra were cast entirely of gilt bronze in the French Empire period of the early 19th century. Each candelabrum is formed as a cornucopia of scrolled branches holding four lights with drip pans, set on a single torch-form stem, held aloft by a Classical style figure. The figures, one male and one female, are shown draped in swathed clothing, with the male figure depicted holding a quill in his other hand, whilst the female figure clutches a delicate bouquet of flowers. The figures stand upon circular bases, set onto ovoid vases which featured fluted details and central bands of laurel leaf motifs. The vases themselves stand on undulating roundels formed of acanthus leaves, which are further set atop square-form plinths. Classically influenced works were popular during the French Empire period, when the Emperor Napoleon I sought to create a place in history for France alongside the ancient dynasties...

A stunning pair of early 19th century French Empire candelabra, with four scrolled candle arms supported by classical winged figu...