A pair of Louis XVI ormolu two-branch wall lights circa 1765

With some minor rubbing, traces of oxidation and surface dirt to ormolu. Both pieces with visible seam at one arm of figure. One with loose bobeche and tray. Drilled for electricity. In good overall condition, finely worked.
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.

A drawing for a related set of wall lights with putti attributed to Louis Prieur, in the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, Paris, is illustrated H. Ottomeyer, P. Pröschel et al., Vergoldete Bronzen, Munich, 1986, vol. I, p. 288, fig. 4.16.1.

A similar although more elaborate pair was sold from the collection of Jacques Doucet, 5-8 June 1912, lot 266, Galerie Georges Petit, Paris.

A pair of similar wall lights were in the sale of the collection of Randon de Boisset in 1777. "Une moyenne paire de bras à deux branches porteés par un terme figure d'enfant; ces bras sont parfaitement finis, dorés d'or mat par Gouthiere." The pair was sold to Lebrun for 440 livres.

A similar pair from the collection of Louis XVI at Compiègne sold Ader Picard Tajan, Paris 11 December 1988, lot 76, is in the Musée Cognacq-Jay, Paris.