Important Pair Of Directoire Candelabra

These rare French Directory Period candelabra with four lights, in gilded and patinated bronze, have the shape of nymphs after a model by Falconet. To begin with, these fine female figures in patinated bronze, have a coiffure held in place by a headband. Further, they are wearing classical drapery that partially covers their breasts, and reveal their sensual figures. Also each nymph holds aloft a bouquet of four branches that emerge from a cornucopia. These four arms of lights are adorned with big curls, flowers and curving acanthus leaves.  All sconces carry elegant decorations of grape leaves and bunches of grapes. Finally, both women rest on a cylindrical white marble base decorated with gilded bronzes.

The beautiful design of this rare pair of French candelabra is inspired by the work of sculptor Etienne-Maurice Falconet (1716-1791). It is similar to that of a piece sketched by Saint-Aubin in the margins of the brochure of the Salon of 1761 (see H. Ottomeyer and P. Pröschel, Vergoldete Bronzen, Band I, Munich, 1986, p. 254, fig. 4.7.1). With several variants at the level of the sconces and the plinth, we find these two nymphs on several models of candelabra by François Rémond (circa 1747-1812).

François Rémond was one of the most important Parisian chaser-gilders of the last third of the 18th century. He began his apprenticeship in 1763 and became a master chaser-gilder in 1774. Later his great talent quickly won him a wealthy clientele, including certain members of the Court. Through Dominique Daguerre, François Rémond was involved in furnishing the homes of most of the important collectors of the late 18th century, supplying them with exceptional clock cases, andirons, and candelabra.


This pair of French candelabra is highly decorative and is in a very good condition.


LITERATURE
- H. Ottomeyer, P. Proschel et al., ” Vergoldete Bronzen – Die Bronzearbeiten des Spätbarock und Klassizismus“, Munich, 1986, Vol. I, p. 254, fig. 4.7.1.