André Antoine Ravrio - Pair Of Bronze Candlesticks - Torches From The Consulate Period

Pair of Consulate period candlesticks attributed to André-Antoine RavrioModel similar to those delivered to the Palace of FontainebleauElegant pair of bronze candlesticks, typical of the Consulate period, attributed to André-Antoine Ravrio (1759–1814), one of the greatest Parisian bronze casters of the First Empire. Of a sober and balanced refinement, these torches are distinguished by their tapered eight-sided stem, resting on a circular molded base, highlighted with finely chiseled sawtooth friezes. Each shaft rests on a bouquet of lion claws, and ends with a vase-shaped bobèche, an ornamental detail found on a model preserved in the collections of the Palace of Fontainebleau (torches F 6667). This model is similar to that documented in the archives of the Mobilier impérial as having been delivered in 1809–1810 by Ravrio for the 1st ministerial quarters, Ministers' wing at the Palace of Fontainebleau. The period description mentions: "gilded candlesticks, hollow round feet, slanted stems, each carried on four claws, vase-shaped bobeches" (Arch. nat., O2 656 & O2 660). Although this pair is not identified as part of the official deliveries, its quality of execution, the precision of the chiseling and the stylistic coherence make it a representative example of Ravrio's refined production, and more broadly of the neoclassical aesthetic under the Consulate. A beautiful pair of candlesticks, collector's items, witnesses to the discreet and controlled luxury of the decorative arts under Napoleon. Height: 28 cm Material: bronze Condition: slight wear from use, some dents Comparative documentation attached: extract from a reference work and inventory of the torches of Fontainebleau.