Pair Of Louis XVI-style Candelabra In The Shape Of Athenian Figures, Second Half Of The 19th Century.

A pair of candelabra in the shape of Athenian figures, made of gilded bronze and white marble, crafted in the Neoclassical style during the second half of the 19th century. Each candelabrum rests on a concave triangular base of white marble, accented by a frieze of heart-shaped motifs, and is supported by three legs ending in finely chiseled deer hooves.

The ovoid white marble urn is held in place by a gilded bronze mount adorned with a frieze of pilasters. The three light arms, formed of leafy scrollwork emerging from rosettes, support lampshades decorated with fluting, pearls, and small flowers. The bases of the arms are punctuated by pine-cone-shaped pendants, while the lower part of the urn is accented with water leaves and a foliated base topped by a bunch of grapes.

The crown is the most remarkable feature of this pair. Each urn is topped with a lavish composition of fruits and foliage, including bunches of grapes, open pomegranates, apples, and a pineapple standing upright at the very top. The carving here is particularly meticulous: the various fruits are clearly distinguished from one another, rendered in relief with precision, creating a lively and richly detailed decoration. This motif, a symbol of abundance, prosperity, and hospitality, lends great character to the ensemble.

The marble pieces are in good condition, with no chips or cracks. The bronze elements retain their original gilding, which is still well-preserved and lustrous, with some normal wear and very slight distortions on certain candle arms—consistent with the set’s age and having no impact on its appearance.

This pair of candelabra elegantly exemplifies the 19th-century taste for neoclassical designs inspired by the reign of Louis XVI, while distinguishing itself through the richness of its top decoration.

Dimensions:
Height: 31 cm.
Diameter: 22 cm.