Empire French Three-Light Gilt Bronze Wall Sconces, Paris, 1810, Set of 4

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Rare Set of Four French Empire Three-Light Gilt Bronze Wall Sconces, Paris, circa 1810 An exceptionally rare and beautifully preserved … Read more Rare Set of Four French Empire Three-Light Gilt Bronze Wall Sconces, Paris, circa 1810 An exceptionally rare and beautifully preserved set of four French Empire three-light wall sconces, dating to circa 1810 and most likely made in Paris. The survival of four matching examples is particularly remarkable. More than two centuries after their creation, the sconces remain together as an architectural ensemble, preserving not only their elegant Empire design but also fascinating evidence of the individual craftsmanship involved in their manufacture. Each sconce is constructed around an unusually light and graceful open framework. In contrast to the considerably heavier sculptural construction often associated with Empire lighting, slender shaped and profiled bronze bands form an elegant three-sided composition supporting three candleholders. Measuring only 21 cm wide and weighing approximately 0.9 kg each, their delicacy and remarkably restrained proportions are among their most distinctive characteristics. The shaped bronze framework is enriched with finely executed classical ornament, including delicate foliate and oak-leaf borders. Finely profiled and beaded candle cups support removable drip pans, while the three lights form a balanced architectural composition around the open center. Particularly beautiful are the substantial floral wall plates. Each is conceived as a large stylized, multi-layered flower or rosette, with broad rounded petals alternating with pointed foliate elements. A separately cast floral fastener forms the center and simultaneously becomes part of the construction. Four matching sconces – each subtly individual One of the most appealing aspects of this set is that the four sconces are not mechanically identical in every detail. Close examination reveals subtle differences in the applied ornamental borders as well as slight variations between individual candle cups and removable drip pans. These are not visually disturbing discrepancies; rather, they are fascinating evidence of historic workshop production and hand finishing. The four pieces unmistakably belong together, yet each retains small individual characteristics. Such variations give the set a quality that would be virtually impossible to reproduce through modern standardized manufacture. Hand-incised workshop or assembly markings are also preserved on the reverse of the wall plates, offering another intriguing glimpse into their original manufacture and assembly. The sconces were originally conceived for candles, as demonstrated by their construction and removable drip pans, and were electrified later in their long history. Their gilt surfaces display a particularly beautiful, deep golden appearance with subtle differences between matte and more reflective areas. The bronze has acquired gentle oxidation, wear and tonal variation over the course of approximately two centuries. The surfaces have recently received only a very fine application of Renaissance Wax, intended to protect the existing historic finish and patina rather than alter it. These traces of age are an integral part of the sconces’ character. Created during the extraordinary artistic period of Napoleonic France, these four sconces have already existed for more than 200 years. They have survived generations of ownership, changing interiors and changing tastes in decoration, as well as the fundamental transition from candlelight to electric illumination. Today, their small variations, historic surfaces, removable candle fittings and workshop markings allow much of that history to remain visible. Rather than appearing over-restored, the sconces retain the character one hopes to find in genuine early 19th-century decorative arts. Their sophisticated Neoclassical vocabulary, floral rosettes, finely profiled candle cups and unusually refined lightweight construction place them within the tradition of the accomplished Parisian bronziers working during the Empire period. Comparable lighting was produced by workshops associated with such celebrated makers as Pierre-Philippe Thomire, Claude Galle, André-Antoine Ravrio and their contemporaries. No specific maker attribution is claimed for this set. Electrical condition The four sconces have been function tested and are currently working. As with antique lighting of this age, we nevertheless strongly recommend that all electrical wiring and components be inspected by a qualified electrician before installation. The sconces are presently not grounded/earthed. Their existing metal construction allows a grounding connection to be incorporated without materially changing their historic appearance. Particularly for installation in the United States, we recommend that the final grounding, electrical inspection and installation be performed locally by a qualified electrician in accordance with the applicable local electrical requirements. This approach also allows the electrician installing the sconces to adapt and verify the electrical system specifically for the property in which they will ultimately be used. Dimensions – each sconce Height: 18 cm / 7.09 in. Width: 21 cm / 8.27 in. Depth: 21 cm / 8.27 in. Weight: approximately 0.9 kg / 1.98 lbs. Set of four. France, probably Paris, circa 1810.
Up to 250V (Europe/UK Standard).The wiring of this item may be original and might need replacement, if not specified otherwise. See less