Pair Of Candlesticks - Bronze - Empire Style - Galles / Ravrio - France - 19th Century

Pair of Empire-style candlesticks in patinated bronze, Paris, circa 1805–1810 – School of Claude Galle or André-Antoine Ravrio

An elegant pair of finely chiseled and patinated bronze candlesticks from the Consulate–First Empire period, made in Paris around 1805–1810.

Each candlestick rests on a circular base adorned with a frieze of water leaves. The shaft, shaped like a quiver with beveled sides, is accented by double bands and rises to a vase-shaped bowl, characterized by the great simplicity typical of the Empire style. The base of the shaft is embellished with a design of stylized leaves, adding a subtle ornamental touch.

The quality of craftsmanship is remarkable: the candlesticks can be completely disassembled thanks to their original threaded-rod assembly, a technique employed by the great Parisian workshops for their most meticulously crafted pieces.

With their design, elegant proportions, and quality of craftsmanship, these candlesticks follow in the tradition of models created by the great bronze casters of the First Empire, notably Claude Galle (1759–1815) and André-Antoine Ravrio (1759–1814), both of whom were suppliers to the Imperial Garde-Meuble. They bear a striking resemblance to the models delivered for the imperial residences, notably the Grand Trianon and the Château de Fontainebleau.

Since no signature or workshop mark is visible, a definitive attribution cannot be made. This pair is therefore offered as the work of a major Parisian workshop of the Empire period, in the style of the works of Claude Galle or André-Antoine Ravrio.

The perfectly preserved antique brown-black patina lends the set a sober and refined character, highly sought after by collectors of Empire-style bronzes.

Dimensions:

• Height: 25 cm
• Period: First Empire, circa 1805–1810
• Origin: Paris
• Material: Patinated bronze
• Condition: Very good condition; original mounting is fully disassemblable.