Pair Of Gilt Bronze Candlesticks With A Continuous Frieze Of Classical Women Signed Barbedienne

Pair of Gilt Bronze Candlesticks with a Continuous Frieze of Classical Women, Signed Barbedienne

Description:

This pair of gilt bronze candlesticks rises on a tapering conical shaft encircled by a continuous frieze of classically draped female figures, following one another in a processional movement inspired by neoclassical bas-reliefs. The stylized acanthus-leaf socle, the molded nozzle, and the widely flared circular foot with twisted gadroons, resting on a stepped square base, complete this Louis XVI-inspired composition, revived by nineteenth-century bronziers.

Signed Barbedienne, these candlesticks attest to the craftsmanship of the celebrated Parisian foundry, renowned for the fineness of its chasing and the fidelity of its models to antique and neoclassical sources. Mounted as lamps with discreet wiring, they are now topped with drum lampshades in pleated ivory silk, trimmed with gilt braid, which diffuse a warm light while preserving the original spirit of the pieces.

Technique:

Gilt bronze, finely chased, with a continuous frieze of classically draped women. Tapering conical shaft, acanthus-leaf socle, molded nozzle, circular foot with twisted gadroons on a stepped square base. Signed Barbedienne. French work, 19th century. Drum lampshade in pleated ivory silk, gilt braid trim.

Dimensions:

Height of the candlestick: 11 in (28 cm)

Diameter of the base: 5 1/8 in (13 cm)

Overall height with shade: 19 11/16 in (50 cm)

Shade diameter: 11 13/16 in (30 cm)

Condition:

Good condition, attractive original gilding. Small dents to one nozzle. Candlesticks mounted as lamps, wired for electricity, ready for installation.

Biography:

Ferdinand Barbedienne (1810-1892) founded, in 1838, together with the sculptor and inventor Achille Collas, one of the most important art foundries of the nineteenth century. Specializing in the production of decorative bronzes and reductions after antique and old master sculptures, the Barbedienne foundry achieved international renown, crowned by numerous awards at the Universal Exhibitions of Paris and London. Its productions, celebrated for the fineness of their chasing and the quality of their gilding, are today found in the greatest public and private collections.