Pair of French 19th century gilt-bronze dolphin chenets

These fantastic antique chenets or firedogs were made in 19th century France and are crafted from beautiful and ornate gilt-bronze. Each piece is of matching design, and features a base, mounted with two mythical sea-creatures or dolphins as they are known, heads down and holding aloft two spheres with their tails. The globes are further decorated with lavish and extensive scrolling decoration and wreaths, open-shells are mounted facing outwards towards the top, and the base is mounted on superb gilt feet. They face in towards each other, and would make a splendid addition to the fireplace, or indeed as decorative objects for any fine suitable interior space.