Importante paire de grandes torchères aux femmes à l'Antique en bronze patiné et doré d'époque Empire

chaque figure soutenant un bouquet de douze bras de lumière rehaussés de feuilles d'acanthe, arabesques, rosettes, masques et palmettes, reposant sur un socle en placage de porphyre, bois noirci et bronze doré ; (percés et montés à l'électricité ; les socles de goût néoclassique de la seconde moitié du XIXe siècle)

The illustration is accurate, except that the porphyry bases are actually less reddish. As said, the candelabra have been pierced and drilled for electricity. Please note that the electricity fitting has to be checked by a professional. The patina figures with scattered wear, marks and scratches throughout the surface due to age and handling. Nevertheless, beautiful and impressive cast. The gilt bronzes : tiny spots of wear and oxydation in places. Very few missing elements, such as on the breastplate of one of the figures and on the basis of the branches (just above the head) as visible on the image p. 95. As said in the catalogue, the pedestals are of later date and have been associated : inevitable dents, chips and marks throughout the surface due to age and handling, especially on the ebonised bases. Restoration to the right side of one porphyry base. Large dimensions, imposing look.
"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."

Une page du catalogue commercial de M. Chopin (conservé au Victoria & Albert Museum à Londres) installé 257 rue Saint-Denis au début du XIXe siècle reproduit sous le n° 54 un modèle de candélabre similaire lui même directement inspiré des croquis préparatoires réalisés par Charles Percier en 1802 pour l'aménagement du boudoir de joséphine Bonaparte au château de Saint-Cloud.