Pair of monumental 13-light bronze candelabra after Carrier-Belleuse

After Carrier-Belleuse, Albert-Ernest (French, 1824-1887)

£150,000

Modelled after pieces by Carrier-Belleuse, these candelabra merge opulent neoclassical elegance with masterful craftsmanship.

 

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Description

Crafted with meticulous precision and artistry, these monumental candelabra emanate neoclassical grandeur. Each piece prominently features a full-length Classical female figure, masterfully sculpted from patinated bronze, embodying the spirit of ancient tales and timeless elegance. The beauty of her form is accentuated by intricately detailed draping robes, solidifying the piece's neoclassical essence.

Rising from the figure’s outstretched hands is a pristine marble sphere, encased within a radiant gilt bronze support, from which sprout thirteen delicately wrought light branches. These branches are adorned with scrolled leaf embellishments, epitomizing excellent craftsmanship. The central stem, bathed in gleaming ormolu, is ornamented with variations of bead-and-reel friezes at its terminals, accompanied by leaf motifs enveloping the marble sphere.

The sculptures are poised atop ormolu-mounted bases of veined red marble, culminating in majestic claw feet. The base's lower facade is beautified with ormolu escutcheons and a regal acanthus leaf band, while the upper section boasts ormolu flower festoons, dainty bows, and a leaf-and-dart patterned frieze, capturing the essence of the Romantic style.

Intriguingly, while the central figure’s design mirrors the genius of French sculptor Albert-Ernest Carrier-Belleuse (1824-1887), these candelabra distinguish themselves through their unparalleled craftsmanship, standing as a testament to artisanal dedication. Their imposing stature ensures they command attention, transforming any spacious room into a bastion of opulence and allure. Truly, a remarkable embodiment of artistic finesse and neoclassical romance.

 A similar example of these candelabra (lot 18) was sold at Christie’s New York on the 13th April 2017 for $211,500.

Overall dimensions: Height 279.5cm, width 71cm, depth 69cm
Candelabra: Height 201.5, diameter 69cm
Bases: Height 78cm, width 71cm, depth 62cm

Provenance-+

This pair (lot 240) was sold at Bonhams New Bond Street on the 25th Novemeber 2009 for £96,000.

Details

Artist / Maker
After Carrier-Belleuse, Albert-Ernest (French, 1824-1887)
Country of Origin
French
Date of Manufacture
Early 20th Century
Period
Early 20th Century
Style
Neoclassical
Material
Marble, Ormolu (Gilt Bronze), Patinated Bronze
Colour
Black, Gold, Red

Dimensions

Height
279.5 cm / 109.8 inches
Width
71 cm / 28 inches
Depth
69 cm / 27.2 inches

Reference:
16772

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