Pair Of Candlesticks - Gilded Bronze - Empire Style - Claude Galle - France - 19th Century

Pair of Empire-style candlesticks in gilded bronze attributed to Claude Galle

Superb pair of finely chased and gilded bronze candlesticks, First Empire period, circa 1805–1810, attributed to Claude Galle (1759–1815), one of the most important bronze casters of the Imperial period.

The design features a particularly refined decoration consisting of three female busts in the classical style, serving as caryatids. The figures, with delicately modeled faces, are adorned with feathers—a characteristic element of the Empire decorative style—and wear ornaments around their necks.

The female figures support an elegant, cup-shaped upper section, richly adorned with geometric and floral motifs and chiseled friezes.

The long, tapered shaft is punctuated by several finely chiseled decorative bands and registers. At its base, it rests on female feet clad in strappy sandals, a particularly elegant detail characteristic of the Neoclassical and Empire aesthetics.

The piece rests on wide circular bases, lavishly decorated with radiating motifs, foliage, and beaded friezes, showcasing the great richness of the chisel work.

The quality of the figures’ modeling, the finesse of the details, and the richness of the decoration give this pair a truly striking decorative presence.

This model is reminiscent of the work of Claude Galle, a renowned Parisian bronze artist during the First Empire and a supplier to the imperial residences.

Period: First Empire, circa 1805–1810
Attributed to: Claude Galle (1759–1815)
Material: Gilded and chiseled bronze
Height: 29.5 cm

Beautiful antique gilding Very good overall condition and remarkable quality of decoration.

A particularly elegant pair of Empire-style candlesticks, featuring a rich repertoire of classical ornamentation: female figures, feathers, strappy sandals, and floral and geometric motifs.