A Large Pair Of Empire Candelabra with Gratiën in the manner Of Pierre-philippe Thomire

Description

Rare and Important Pair of Empire Seven-Light Candelabra In the manner of Pierre-Philippe Thomire (1751–1843) France, circa 1810–1820 An exceptional and rare pair of monumental seven-light Empire candelabra, finely cast in gilt and patinated bronze, each featuring a central stem supported by three Graces (Gratiae) in the classical tradition. These allegorical female figures, rendered in dark patinated bronze, are inspired by ancient Greek statuary and reflect the refined neoclassical taste of the Napoleonic era. The elegant caryatid figures stand on cylindrical pedestals with finely detailed gilt friezes depicting mythological female figures and musicians in procession. The candle branches, exquisitely decorated with volutes, palmettes and acanthus leaves, culminate in a classical altar-shaped nozzle at the top — all emblematic of the grandeur and harmony typical of early 19th-century French design. These candelabra are stylistically and technically related to the celebrated works of Pierre-Philippe Thomire, the most renowned bronzier of the Empire period, supplier to the Imperial court and successor to the bronze tradition of Gouthière. Literature: H. Ottomeyer, P. Pröschel, Vergoldete Bronzen – Die Bronzearbeiten des Spätbarock und Klassizismus, Munich, 1986, Vol. I, p. 298, ill. 4.18.7