Pair of Louis XV style ormolu wall lights by Mottheau

The wall lights in this pair are crafted from ormolu in the Louis XV style. Each beautiful piece consists of a backplate modelled as splayed acanthus leaves, from which issues forth a trio of lighting branches. The two branches that flank on either side are S-scroll in shape, while the one to the centre is itricately looped over itself. The branches, like the backplate upon which they are mounted, are formed with expressive foliate motifs, each of which finishes in an ormolu drip pan and candle holder.

The producer Maison Mottheau et Fils was a leading designer and bronzier in late nineteenth century Paris. After finding critical acclaim at the Paris Exhibition Universelle in 1900 for its 'Torchere Lumineuse,' the firm became widely known for its elaborate lighting fixtures, and it went on to collaborate with leading sculptors to reach even loftier artistic heights for their bronze ornamentations on their chandeliers, wall lights, and candelabras, often producing bronzes for important Parisian cabinet makers as well. Both pieces are stamped for 'Mottheau / Paris.'