Pair of baroque torcheros; Naples; XVIII century.

Pair of baroque torcheros; Naples; XVIII century.
Carved and gilded wood.
They present faults and restorations.
Measurements: 113 x 54 x 50 cm (x2)
This pair of 18th century Neapolitan torcheros, carved and gilded by hand, represents one of the most refined forms of Baroque decorative art in Southern Italy. Each torchero is composed of an angelic figure, depicted with grace and dynamism, posing on a majestic swan. The angels, with serene and soft expressions, hold in their hands a raised lighter, designed to hold a candle or a lamp, thus allowing to illuminate the space with an air of solemnity and elegance.
The wood carving is meticulous and detailed; the angels' wings are delicately sculpted. The golden finish gives a warm, luminous glow when they reflect the light. The swans, animals traditionally associated with purity and beauty, are carved with great realism, highlighting the elegance of their feathers and the curvature of their necks in a harmonious pose. The gilded surface of these figures highlights the contours and details of the carving, endowing them with an opulence characteristic of Neapolitan Baroque.
In 18th century Neapolitan art, torcheros played an essential role in the decoration of churches, palaces and aristocratic residences. These monumental candelabra not only had a practical function of illumination, but also served as symbols of status and devotion. Angelic themes were common in the furnishings and liturgical accessories of the period, as they evoked a connection between the earthly and the divine, reinforcing the spirituality of the environment.
Neapolitan torcheros, with their exuberant forms and intense gilding, are an outstanding example of the skill of the region's artisans, who combined noble materials with carving and gilding techniques in a dramatic and expressive style. These pieces not only provided light, but also transformed the space, creating an atmosphere of magnificence and sacredness that was deeply valued in the Baroque context. The ornamental richness and masterful carving of these torcheros make this pair exceptional examples of the splendor of 18th century Neapolitan decorative art.