France, Empire Era, Pair Of Four-light Candelabra

France, Empire era

Pair of four-light candelabra

bronze gilded, cm alt 61

The elegant pair of candlesticks with four lights are characterized by figures of Victoria portrayed in balance on a sphere placed on top of a column tower surrounded by figures in procession; the figures, designed to be arranged "vis à vis", they support a cornucopia from which emerge the bracers.

The Empire style, which flourished between 1804 and 1815, represents the last phase of Neoclassicism and is inextricably linked to the rise to power of Napoleon Bonaparte. Born in France to celebrate the greatness of the emperor and his conquests, it quickly spread throughout Europe, deeply influencing architecture, furniture, decorative arts and visual arts.

The imperial aesthetic is based on a rigid return to antiquity, drawing inspiration from Greek and Roman art and architecture. Essential lines, harmonious proportions and symmetry reign supreme. The decorations are rich and symbolic, often depicting elements such as eagles, sphinxes, lions, laurels, littori bundles and stars. Carved friezes, bas-reliefs and gilded bronzes embellish the surfaces.

Precious materials such as marble, bronze, solid wood and sumptuous fabrics such as velvet and silk are used.