A pair of patinated and gilt-bronze stands. France, 19th Century

A pair of patinated and gilt-bronze stands or paperweights in the shape of sphinxes, resting on a rectangular gilded bronze base decorated with eggs and darts. France. 19th Century. After a model by Nicolas Cousteau (1658-1733) and Jean Hardy (1653-1737)
Measurements: 14 x 23 x 12,5 cm.
The representation of sphinxes in Europe is a regular element of interior decorative sculpture, but especially exterior for palace gardens in the 18th century. It was at this time that Jean Hardy, in collaboration with Nicolas Coustou and François Lespignola, created eight sphinxes for the terrace of the Pavillon Royal in Marly. Although the bronzes present here are dated from the 19th century, the author was probably inspired by the French artists mentioned above.