Pair of Empire-style candelabra. France, early 19th century

Pair of Empire-style candelabra. France, early 19th century.
Polished and fire-gilded bronze.
The candelabras were formerly electrified and used as bases for modern lamps. Traces of this can still be seen.
The candelabras were formerly electrified and used as bases for modern lamps. Traces of this are still visible.
Provenance: Danish private collection.
Measurements: 28 x 13 x 11 cm.

A pair of candelabra made of burnished bronze and fire-gilded bronze, representative of the refinement achieved by the decorative arts during the Empire period. Their design combines the architectural austerity of the pyramidal shaft with rich, classically inspired ornamentation: on each of its sides are winged female figures holding torches—motifs symbolically linked to light and highly characteristic of the neoclassical ornamental repertoire. The upper section takes the form of an antique lamp, embellished with satyr masks from whose heads flames emerge, creating an appealing sculptural interplay between function and decoration. The hallmarks of the dark patinated bronze and the gilded elements are the verticality and richness of the pieces, while the spheres and the architecturally styled base complete a composition of striking elegance.