Pair of Empire candelabra in burnished and mercury-gilded bronze, first half of the 19th century.

Pair of Empire candelabra in burnished bronze and mercury-gilded bronze, first half of the 19th century. Origin: France Measurements: 73 x 24 cm. This pair of elegant candelabra exhibits several interesting elements. The body is formed by the figure of a Vestal virgin, in burnished bronze, holding two pitchers in gilded bronze. The upper part, consisting of the candle arms, is made of gilded bronze and is richly adorned: applied friezes and chased palmettes embellish the structure, while the candle holders are encircled by flaming torches. A fourth decorative arm echoes the theme and presents a kind of torch. The candelabra rest on a hexagonal prism pedestal, embellished with friezes featuring floral, vegetal elements, and palmettes. The gilded base features very fine chasing depicting palmettes, vegetal elements, animal figures, and a splendid pair of mythological figures playing a double flute. These two candelabra display the typical characteristics of Empire-style decorative objects: the interplay of contrasts between burnished and gilded bronze, and the use of decorations with classical elements, which impart a sense of majesty and a direct connection to Greco-Roman iconography.