A pair of gilt-bronze wall lights each with the crown `c' poinçon Louis XV, circa 1745

each with the crown of thorns and winged cherub mask, the centre veneered in lapis lazuli

Purchased Sotheby's Parke Bernet Monaco, 4th December 1983, lot 101.

Warsaw, Poland, The Royal Castle, Opus Sacrum, April 10th-July 31st, 1990.

Jozef Grabski, ed., Opus Sacrum, Exhibnition Catalogue, Vienna, 1990, pp. 374-375, Cat. no. 76.

These are slightly dirty and would benefit from a light clean according to taste. Attractive detail to casting. On one the candlebranches are slightly loose and would benefit from tightening up. There are two drill holes in the backplate of one which can easily be filled. In overall good condition.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The religious symbols of the crown of thorns and cherub masks combined with the sumptuous casting and design of these wall lights seems to indicate that they were originally conceived for an important chapel or a private oratory.

The crown `c' poinçon was a tax mark on all metals utilising the alloy copper in France from 1745-49.