Object Description
Antique pair of ormolu pedestals with Neo-Grec sphinx supports
French, Late 19th Century
Height 105cm, width 49cm, depth 49cm
Decorated with Neo-Grec and Rococo style elements, this stunning pair of pedestals are impressively crafted from gilt-bronze.
The two stands are identical in their design. The circular top sits above a tripod support, carved in the Neo-Grec manner with winged figurative terms evocative of sphinxes. The bodies of the terms taper into scrolled legs decorated with acanthus leaf designs, culminating in paw feet. The three terms are connected by foliate swags.
Alongside the figurative supports is a central column, the upper section of which resembles an ancient Greek krater. Like the terms, the central shaft is replete with decorative elements, including scallop shells, elaborate scrollwork, and foliate motifs.
Whilst intended for the display of works of decorative art, this superb pair of stands are undoubtable works of art in their own right.