Empire Empire Period

Pair of Empire candelabra - Empire period, attributed to Claude Galle (1759 - 1815)

Rare pair of finely chased bronze candelabra, gilded with mercury and partially patinated, Empire period, circa 1810.

Resting on a circular base with frieze decoration and clawed feet, these candelabra feature an elegant flanged shaft, topped by a slender neoclassical vase. The ensemble develops a luminous bouquet with three arms, two of which are scrolled, terminating in finely sculpted eagle heads, and a central fire.

The line is particularly dynamic: the sinuous, almost taut arms bring a real visual tension to the ensemble, reinforced by the quality of the chasing and the fresh mercury gilding. The contrast between the gilded parts and the subtly patinated areas accentuates the relief and the reading of the volumes.

This model, of great elegance, is distinguished by the presence of its upper vase and its richly animated arms, surmounted by almost griffon-like figures, giving it a strong, assertive personality. This is a rare model, destined for a discerning clientele of collectors.

A model is reproduced in the book Vergoldete Bronzen (page 327). The base alone is similar to an example preserved at the Grand Trianon, but the complete composition shown here is far more accomplished and decorative.

The candelabras were formerly drilled for electrification (visible from the front). However, once positioned, this drilling becomes unobtrusive. They can thus be used both as lamps and candleholders, depending on the desired presentation.

Dimensions:

Height: 42 cm

Width: 29 cm

Condition:

Used wear, in keeping with their age.

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Price: €3,950 firm and non-negotiable

Delivery offered by Galerie De Cicco (entire France)

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About Claude Galle (1759 - 1815)

One of the most important bronziers and fondeur-ciseleurs of the late 18th century and Empire period, Claude Galle was born in Villepreux, near Versailles. Trained in the workshop of founder Pierre Foy, whose daughter he married in 1784, he became master founder in 1786.

On the death of his father-in-law in 1788, he took over the workshop, making it one of the largest in Paris, employing up to 400 workers. Moving to Quai de la Monnaie and then Rue Vivienne from 1805, he became a major supplier to the Garde-Meuble de la Couronne.

He was involved in furnishing the great imperial residences, including Fontainebleau, Saint-Cloud, the Tuileries, Compiègne and Rambouillet. He collaborated with the greatest craftsmen of his time, including Pierre-Philippe Thomire, and also carried out commissions for Italian palaces, notably Monte Cavallo in Rome and Stupinigi near Turin.

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