Pair Of Egyptian-style Empire Candelabra – émile Louis Picault – 19th Century

A pair of candelabra in the Egyptian-inspired Empire style, attributed to the famous sculptor Émile Louis Picault (1833–1915). Crafted from patinated bronze and finely chiseled and gilded bronze, they rest on imposing bases of Egyptian porphyry, one of the most prestigious imperial stones of antiquity.

Each candelabrum features a majestic female figure inspired by ancient Egypt, depicted in a hieratic pose and clad in ancient-style drapery. The figures hold aloft a spectacular five-armed candelabra, richly adorned with lotus flowers and finely chiseled foliage.

The porphyry bases are adorned with gilded bronze sconces featuring winged heads inspired by Egyptian motifs. The contrast between the figures’ dark patina, the brilliance of the gilded bronze, and the richness of the porphyry lends the ensemble a monumental presence and remarkable elegance.

Perfectly illustrating the fascination with Egypt that developed in France following Napoleon Bonaparte’s Egyptian campaign, this pair attests to the exceptional craftsmanship of the great 19th-century Parisian bronze workshops. The quality of the sculpture, the finesse of the chiseling, and the use of noble materials make this a first-rate collector’s piece.

Dimensions. Height: 131 cm

Materials

• Patinated bronze
• Gilded bronze
• Egyptian porphyry

Artist

• Émile Louis Picault (1833–1915)

Style

• Egyptian Empire style