Pair Of Candlesticks With Cherubs

Sumptuous and delightful pair of two-light candelabra dating from the Napoleon III period, circa 1860, remarkable for the delicacy of their composition, the elegance of their proportions and the exceptional finesse of their chasing. Crafted in gilt bronze and white Carrara marble, this pair represents a superb example of 19th-century French decorative arts, harmoniously combining the refinement of sculpture, the richness of ornamentation and the poetic charm of the figures depicted.

Each candelabrum features a graceful winged cherub, delicately kneeling upon a billowing cloud with generously modelled, flowing contours. In a pose full of lightness and grace, these charming putti extend their arms to either side, each hand supporting an elegant scrolling branch terminating in a gilt-bronze candleholder. The fluidity of their poses, the delicate modelling of their youthful bodies and the gentle expressions of their faces demonstrate particularly refined artistic craftsmanship.

One of the most charming features of this pair lies in the arrangement of the two cherubs, whose faces are gently turned towards one another. This distinctive detail creates a genuine visual dialogue between the two sculptures, lending the ensemble remarkable harmony and a unique charm. Designed to complement one another, these candelabra form a beautifully balanced composition, equally elegant when displayed side by side or positioned on either side of an antique clock, upon a mantelpiece or a prestigious piece of furniture.

The richly worked candle branches display graceful vegetal curves reminiscent of leafy stems. Their upward movement elegantly follows the outstretched arms of the cherubs. They terminate in delicate cylindrical candle sockets, decorated with a succession of ornamental motifs set within vertical recessed panels and highlighted by finely beaded borders. At their bases, generously proportioned, finely chased acanthus leaves form elegant vegetal crowns, bringing depth and richness to this particularly decorative composition.

The sculptural craftsmanship of the cherubs also deserves special attention. Their abundant hair is composed of numerous finely defined, undulating locks, while their small outstretched wings reveal meticulous chasing that precisely reproduces the texture and relief of individual feathers. The light draperies, arranged around their hips and delicately crossing their torsos, emphasise the natural movement of the figures. The clouds upon which they rest, with their softly flowing and deeply modelled volumes, further enhance the impression of celestial lightness.

Each sculpture rests upon an elegant architectural base of white Carrara marble, whose luminous whiteness provides a magnificent contrast with the warm golden tones of the gilt bronze. Quadrangular in shape with chamfered corners, these bases are enriched on their sides with superb gilt-bronze mounts depicting leafy scrolls, volutes and classically inspired rosettes. A delicate beaded frieze highlights their upper edges, while small turned and richly moulded gilt-bronze feet provide the finishing touches to the ensemble.