Pair Of Empire Candelabra In Gilded And Patinated Bronze

Provenance

Pair of French figural candelabra in the Empire style, made of gilt bronze and patinated bronze. The decorative vocabulary and overall composition belong to the French neoclassical tradition of the early 19th century, with an iconography inspired by Antiquity and mythological personifications.

Description

This pair of candelabra is composed of two winged female figures standing on gilt spheres, each raised on a cylindrical base decorated with applied gilt bronze ornaments. According to the description provided, the figures represent Nike and Pheme. In Greek mythology, Nike is the personification of Victory, traditionally depicted as a winged goddess associated with triumph, military success and glory. Pheme, also represented as a winged figure, personifies Renown, Fame or public report, symbolically linked with the spreading of reputation and glory.

The figures are executed in patinated bronze with a fine dark green tone, close to black, creating a strong contrast with the gilt bronze elements. Each figure supports a three-light candelabrum with richly ornamented arms, decorated with scrolls, acanthus leaves, palmettes, rosettes and neoclassical motifs. The candle holders and drip pans are finely worked, with carefully chased decorative details. The cylindrical bases are adorned with antique-style profile medallions, wreaths, garlands, torches and vegetal ornaments on a dark patinated ground. The overall composition is highly architectural and balanced, characteristic of the Empire taste, combining symmetry, monumentality and references to classical antiquity.

Technique and materials

The candelabra are made of gilt bronze and patinated bronze. The quality of the casting is high, visible in the modelling of the faces, the treatment of the draperies, the details of the wings and the chasing of the gilt bronze ornaments. The contrast between the gilding and the dark patina gives depth to the composition and enhances the sculptural presence of the figures.

Dating

France, Empire style, early 19th century. This dating is supported by the iconography of the winged Victories, the gilt spheres, the cylindrical bases with antique-style appliqués, the palmettes, wreaths and classical profile medallions, all characteristic of the Empire decorative repertoire and French neoclassical production.

Condition

Good overall condition, with visible signs of age and use. The gilding shows wear, small oxidation marks and variations of surface tone, particularly on the bases and raised decorative elements. The dark patina of the figures has been preserved and presents an attractive aged appearance. The photographs also show the underside construction of the bases, with protective elements beneath the plinths.

Function and display

This pair of candelabra forms a decorative ensemble of strong visual presence, suitable for display on a console, mantelpiece, formal cabinet or in a classical interior. Their iconography and the refined contrast between gilt and patinated bronze make them particularly appropriate for an Empire or neoclassical setting.

Dimensions

height - 80 cm
width - 30 cm
base dimensions - 15 x 15 cm