Object Description
A fine antique pair of French Neo-classical Ormolu candleabra, Circa 1840 in date, later converted to table lamps.
This wonderful pair of doré bronze candelabras have decorative centre acorn finials surrounded by two arms decorated with acanthus leaves and raised on fluted center shafts and finely beaded pedestal bases.
They are delightful objects which will look fabulous in any surrounding.
Condition:
In really excellent working condition having been beautifully cleaned and professionally rewired in our workshops, please see photos for confirmation.
Dimensions in cm:
Height 39 x Width 22 x Depth 13
Dimensions in inches:
Height 15.4 x Width 8.7 x Depth 5.1
Ormolu (from French ‘or moulu’, signifying ground or pounded gold) is an 18th-century English term for applying finely ground, high-carat gold in a mercury amalgam to an object of bronze.The mercury is driven off in a kiln leaving behind a gold-coloured veneer known as ‘gilt bronze’.
The manufacture of true ormolu employs a process known as mercury-gilding or fire-gilding, in which a solution of nitrate of mercury is applied to a piece of copper, brass, or bronze, followed by the application of an amalgam of gold and mercury. The item was then exposed to extreme heat until the mercury burned off and the gold remained, adhered to the metal object.
Our reference: A1463