A Pair Of Candelabras From The 19th Century

Royal Antique is proud to offer this truly exceptional and monumental pair of candelabra, a testament to the grand scale, allegorical depth, and exquisite craftsmanship synonymous with the French Napoleon III period (mid to late 19th century). These impressive pieces combine artistic elegance with historical narrative, making them a powerful decorative statement.

Design and Materials:

• Classical Allegory: Each candelabrum features a superbly cast and finely patinated dark bronze figure of a Vestal Virgin from ancient Rome. Dressed in the traditional seni crines hairstyle and flowing stola (a white tunic), these priestesses of Vesta symbolize purity, devotion, and the sacred guardianship of the hearth. Their graceful forms embody the classical revival aesthetic popular during the Second Empire.

• Supportive Pose: Each Vestal balances a cushion upon her head, from which spring the candelabrum's arms of light. Their arms are elegantly positioned, with one resting languidly on a classical reed, adding to their naturalistic pose and the overall sculptural harmony.

• Luminous Gilt Bronze Branches: From the cushion emerge seven (though the image visually suggests five or six main branches per candelabrum, counting the central one), gracefully scrolling arms of radiant gilt bronze. These arms, symmetrically designed with stylized acanthus scrolls, support the intricately detailed candle nozzles and drip-pans, each surmounted by a "flamme" or stylized wick in gilt bronze. The decorative elements on the candleholders feature charming vine leaf scrolls, adding a touch of naturalistic detail.

• Ornate Bases: Each Vestal stands on a circular patinated bronze terrace, which rests upon a fluted black marble pedestal. This pedestal, flanked by elegant gilt bronze "sausages" (or ovoid mounts), further elevates the composition. The entire ensemble is supported by a robust, shaped griotte marble base (or possibly malachite, as some elements appear green in the image, but the text states "marble," and the base looks like a polished red/brown speckled marble in the light), adorned with finely chased gilt bronze rectangular cartouches at each cardinal point.

Period Significance and Craftsmanship:

Dating from the second half of the Napoleon III period (circa 1860-1870), these candelabra perfectly encapsulate the era's taste for historical eclecticism, luxurious materials, and grand scale. The meticulous casting and patination of the bronze figures, combined with the elaborate chasing and high-quality mercury gilding of the bronze mounts, attest to the superlative skill of the Parisian bronziers who supplied the imperial court and wealthy clientele. The choice of Vestal Virgins as a motif reflects the fascination with classical antiquity and its virtues, making these pieces not only functional lighting but also highly significant works of art.