Pair of cupid-form candle holders, France, 18th-19th century
Patinated and mercury-gilded bronze
sculpture: 33 x 10 x 8 cm
Fine pair of candle-holder cherubs positioned on tall columns in green marble (probably later). Similar models were produced in France from the 18th century onwards.
The flower stem bobeges are in mercury-gilded bronze, therefore they can be dated before 1830, the year in which this type of gilding was banned because of its toxicity. Particularly refined chisel also denotes an ancient workmanship.
Literature: Giacomo and Rozen Wannenes, Les Bronze Ornementaux et Les Objets Montes, Editions Vausor, printed in Italy, 2004.