Object Description
Pair of six-light silvered bronze candelabra attributed to Christofle
French, 19th Century
Height 65cm, diameter 37cm
This superb pair of candelabra are crafted in the opulent Rococo style. Standing atop three trunk-style feet, the bases feature impressive openwork grapevine decoration, which is mirrored by the similar openwork that adorns the very top of each piece.
Forming the main part of the stem is a sculptural putto, who holds a fruit basket on top of his head. One putto faces slightly to the left, and the other to the right – the candelabra are otherwise identical. The putti are carved with highly impressive verisimilitude, that speaks to the extraordinary craftsmanship.
From the top of the fruit basket protrude six, vine-wrapped arms, that are capped with bell-shaped capitals to hold the candles. The very top of each candelabra is surmounted by a flower-cluster finial.
The candelabra are attributed to Christofle, the renowned French silver manufactory. As such, this impressive pair highlights the excellent silverware pieces being made in France during the 19th century.