Pair of large Empire style gilt and patinated bronze planters

This superb pair of planters is crafted from a combination of gilt and patinated bronze creating an eye-catching design. The pieces are adorned throughout with Egyptian-inspired iconography which was popular within the French Empire style. Shaped as litters, the planters are supported by Egyptian figurative litter bearers, their bodies wonderfully wrought from patinated bronze with ormolu accents.

Of a rectangular form, both planters are of an identical design. The two wider panels are decorated with prominent gilt bronze mounts depicting a pair of snakes flanking a central motif depicting a crook and fall. This symbol was often used by Pharaohs to represent authority (crook) as well as fertility and land (crook). Symbolic of power, an open-winged eagle surmounts the composition. The two smaller sides are mounted with more pared-down decoration. The corners of the planters are finished with gilt bronze pilasters. The top and bottom edges are framed by refined gilt bronze mounts.

Each planter stands on a stepped patinated bronze base framed by a refined ormolu frieze. The top of the base is textured emphasizing the life-like depiction of the scene where the figures are walking on a stone ground.

These beautiful French planters would be an attention-grabbing addition to both indoor and outdoor settings.