Pair of large Napoleon III period ormolu candelabra

These elegant antique French candelabra are highly impressive examples of skilled craftsmanship, most notable for the brilliant sheen of their gilding, and for the carefully-sculpted Classical style figures which sit at the base of the candelabra columns.

Each one measures 80 centimetres (31 inches) in height, and will look most splendid on a pair of antique pedestals or on a large mantel. They each have eight lights, modelled as flowers on scrolling, acanthus-leaf form arms issuing from a central stem.

At the base of the stem sits the Classical style figures: on one candelabrum there is a male figure holding a winged cherub; while on the other there is a female figure holding a winged cherub. Each figure has scrolling legs in a manner which alludes to Classical mythology.

The candelabra are set on square plinth bases, decorated around their exteriors with acanthus leaf-form feet, draped laurel garlands and plaques.