Pair Of Bronze Candlesticks, “fauns.” France. Mid-19th Century

A remarkable pair of French bronze candlesticks made in the mid-19th century in the Renaissance style, featuring a refined interpretation of ancient mythology. These works are an excellent example of the great tradition of French bronze art from the Historicist period, where sculptural expressiveness is combined with a perfect mastery of casting, chasing, patina, and mercury gilding.

Each candlestick is depicted as a standing faun, clad in vine leaves and holding clusters of ripe grapes—traditional attributes of the cult of Dionysus and symbols of fertility, abundance, and vitality. The figures are distinguished by their finely modeled anatomy, expressive form, and remarkable craftsmanship. The rich, dark brown patina contrasts with the brilliance of the mercury gilding, highlighting the decorative details, the architecture of the bases, the capitals, and the candle holders.

The circular bases are adorned with delicate chiseled decoration, while the elegant gilded finials complete the ensemble with balance and refinement. This pair is a characteristic example of the work of French bronze casters during the Second Empire, a period in which subjects inspired by antiquity and Renaissance decorative forms regained a central place in the grand interiors of aristocratic residences.

With its rich mythological iconography, the harmony between patinated and gilded bronze, and the excellence of its craftsmanship, this pair is of particular interest to collectors of 19th-century French art bronzes and will fit elegantly into a classical or historic interior.

Dimensions: Height: 22 cm. Width: 8 cm.

Condition: Good condition. Slight signs of wear and aging consistent with the period. The original gilding and patina are well preserved.