Jug (2) - Gilt bronze - Decorative jugs

Pair of Decorative Gilt-Bronze Ewers (Aiguières) - Neo-Renaissance Style - France, Late 19th Century (Napoleon III Period)

Magnificent pair of large decorative ewers (aiguières) in richly chased and gilded bronze, an exquisite example of the eclecticism and superb French bronze craftsmanship of the second half of the 19th century (the height of the Napoleon III period).
The pieces stand out for their exuberant, finely detailed sculptural decoration in the Neo-Renaissance style, centered on Bacchic iconography. The central stems are masterfully modeled as twisted vine branches and trunks, embellished with veined leaves and grape clusters in high relief. Three-dimensional figures of putti reclining amid the foliage stand out on the shaped central body, while broad, elegant scroll handles give the whole structure an upward-reaching form.
The central section features a complex, geometric decorative design recalling the stylistic features of late Gothic and Renaissance reliquaries, alternating smooth panels with richly openwork elements made using the lost-wax or sectional casting technique.
Originally conceived as decorative pieces for adorning sumptuous fireplaces (often as part of a three-piece garniture with a central clock) or console tables in the salons of the upper middle class of the period, they retain all their monumental elegance and decorative impact.
In good condition, with normal signs of age and wear to the gilding.
The height is approximately 37 cm, and the total weight is 5 kg.
See photos for the condition and measurements of all the pieces.
I do not ship outside the European Union.
The lot will be carefully packed and shipped in a reinforced polystyrene box.