Object Description
This is a stunning set of six antique French Neo-Classical ormolu three branch wall sconces, Circa 1880 in date.
They feature ribbon tied and torch form back plates with laurel swags, scrolling branches with floral ends and urn form candle sockets.
They are superbly finished with ribbon and bow finials and bell flower bottoms.
Purchased from a fabulous house in Hampstead, London there is no mistaking their unique quality and design and they will soon instantly enhance the style of one special room in your home.
Condition:
In excellent condition having been cleaned and fully rewired.
Please see photos for confirmation.
Dimensions in cm:
Height 50 cm x Width 32 cm x Depth 15 cm – Height to Candle fitting
Dimensions in inches:
Height 1 foot, 8 inches x Width 1 foot, 1 inch x Depth 6 inches – Height to Candle fitting
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: A4550b