Candelabrum (2) - Bronze - Napoleon III Candelabras

Pair of Napoleon III Bronze Candelabra - France, c. 1860–1880. An important pair of French candelabra for five candles each, crafted in richly worked bronze, attributable to the Napoleon III / Second Empire period, second half of the 19th century.

In monumental composition and strongly decorative, they feature a symmetrical structure resting on angular architectural bases, raised on four molded feet. The bases are profusely ornamented with volutes, vegetal scrolls, cartouches, pierced elements, oval reserves, leaves and Renaissance- and Baroque-inspired motifs.

The central body, urn-shaped, presents relief decoration and pierced side elements, extending into a vertical shaft structured by architectural ornaments. The upper part develops into four sinuous arms arranged around a central elevated flame, forming a balanced and visually striking ensemble.

The bobeches and nozzles feature engraved and relief decoration, maintaining the same ornamental repertoire as the rest of the set. The richness of the casting, the complexity of the pierced elements and the decorative profusion give the pair a particularly scenographic presence.

The aesthetics fit within French Historicism of the Napoleon III period, a time when Parisian production freely recuperated elements from Louis XV, Louis XVI, Renaissance and Baroque styles. In this exemplar, neo-Renaissance and neo-Baroque references predominate, combined with Rocaille-influenced elements.

Because of its scale, decorative richness and quality of casting, this is a particularly decorative pair representative of the French taste of the Second Empire, suitable for both a 19th-century decorative arts collection and classical or historicist interiors.

Origin: France
Period: Second half of the 19th century, circa 1860–1880
Style: Napoleon III / Second Empire, neo-Renaissance and neo-Baroque taste
Material: Bronze worked
Number of lights: 5 per candelabrum
Dimensions: 46 × 23 × 23 cm each

Condition: good overall condition compatible with age and use, showing natural wear, oxidation and antique patina, small marks and age-related irregularities.