A pair of Louis XVI style gilt-bronze chenets after the model by Quentin-Claude Pitoin Paris, second half 19th century

related literature:

P. Verlet, Les Bronzes Dorés Français du XVIII Siécle, Paris, 1987, p. 59, no. 51-52

G. Van der Kemp, Versailles, London, 1978, p. 39

C. Dreyfus, Catalogue sommaire du Mobilier du XVII Siècle et du XVIII Siècle, Paris, 1922, pl. LVI

Overall fair condition; the surface cleaned and with extensive gold painting in places showing some small areas of oxidation and tarnishing; light surface scratches overall.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The combination of the stag and boar was a popular motif for both chenets and wall appliques in the 18th century.

The present model was executed after the celebrated model by Quentin Claude Pitoin, now conserved in the Musée du Louvre, which were delivered on October 28, 1772 for the Salon of Madame du Barry at Fontainebleau. They were later placed in his library at Versailles by Louis XVI.  After the Revolution they were moved to the Palais de Luxembourg.

A pair of chenets of the same design is in the Dauphin's bedchamber at Versailles.

Hans Ottomeyer and Peter Proschel vergoldete Bonzen fig. 2.2.5 illustrate one of a pair of wall appliques in similar roccoco style to the present chenets, stamped St. Germain, and incorporating the heads of a boar and stag.

Compare with another 19th century pair sold in these rooms, May 26, 2000, which sold for $ 110,000.