Pair of Neoclassical Alabaster Torch Sconces

These pure white sconces sit upon torch like bases, illuminating the room in the fusion of classical and romantic forms, typical of the neoclassical period. Alabaster lighting was the first used electrical lighting in Europe, prized for its ability to softly diffuse light. As mentioned above, the Neo-Renaissance style was in reality an eclectic blending of past styles, which the architect selected on the whims of his patrons. In the true Renaissance era there was a division of labour between the architect, who designed the exterior highly visible shell, and others—the artisans—who decorated and arranged the interior. The original Italian mannerist house was a place for relaxation and entertaining, convenience and comfort of the interior being a priority; in the later Baroque designs, comfort and interior design were secondary to outward appearance. This was followed by the Neoclassical period, which gave importance to the proportions and dignity of interiors, but still lost the comfort and internal convenience of the mannerist period. It was during the Neo-Renaissance period of the 19th century that the mannerist comforts were re-discovered and taken a step further. Not only did the improved building techniques of the 1850s allow the glazing of formerly open loggias and arches with the newly invented sheets of plate glass, providing the first "picture windows", but also the blending of architectural styles allowed interiors and exteriors to be treated differently. It was at this time that the concept of "furnishing styles" manifested itself, allowing distinctions to be made between interior rooms...

A bouquet of stylized water lilies adorn these bronze sconces, whose blossoms are gold brushed Opaline glass. Recently rewired, and holding one 40 watt bulb each.

A striking pair of French 19th century Neo-Classical st. patinated bronze and ormolu Bras de Lumière sconces. Each sconce is centered by a beautiful scrolled backplate from where the...

This elegant pair of Neoclassical Giltwood Sconces where made in Italy in the early Nineteenth Century. The Neoclassical Giltwo...