Pair Of Candlesticks Attributed To Claude Galle

This pair of candlesticks shows a claw foot resting on a base with palmettes firezes and the fluted shaft bears antique masks. It should be noted that the elements that make up these candlesticks are made up of several pieces typical of the famous bronzemaker's creation. Indeed, the binet is the same as a pair of candlesticks delivered by Claude Galle in 1807 for the Fontainebleau Palace. The clawed feet surmounted by a notched ring are exactly the same as those found on a number of other models by the master. The masks, with their fine execution and exactness of style, are very close to his work. And the base, worked with palmettes in deep bas-relief, is very similar to other candlestick bases delivered for the Compiègne Palace.
Claude Galle's creations were a combination of individual elements assembled with variations to form different models. Our pair of torches is a good example.


Bibliography: J.P. Samoyault, Pendules et bronzes d'ameublement entrés sous le Premier Empire, Paris, 1989, p. 175, fig. 155.

For an identical model, see the Artcurial sale of 18 June 2013, lot 161.