French Empire Gilt Bronze Candlesticks 1830s Set Of Two Cassolettes

Pair of Empire-style gilt bronze candlesticks, 1800s; a set of two French Empire-style incense burners or censers in ormolu, dating from the first half of the 19th century. These antique French vases have a dual purpose, both decorative and as elegant candle holders. In fact, by turning the reversible domed lid upside down, each vessel transforms into a candlestick.
Made in the early decades of the 19th century, they feature an urn-like shape typical of French mantelpiece candlesticks, resting on a cylindrical pedestal finely chiselled with floral and geometric motifs and a square base. The mercury-gilded bronze, or ormolu, offers a contrast, a combination of matt and polished finishes characteristic of the period. The upper bowl is decorated with vine tendrils, shoots and leaves, whilst the lid is chiselled with concentric beading and surmounted by a pine-cone knob.

They come from a private collection and are in good age related condition.