Napoleon III candlestick. France, ca. 1870.

Napoleon III candlestick. France, ca. 1870.
Gilded bronze, with patinated bronze sculpture.
Measurements: 33 x 26 x 26 cm.
Six-light candelabrum in the Napoleon III style. Made entirely in bronze, it stands out for the quality of its organicist-inspired finish. The six curvilinear arms are sheathed in foliage and enveloping ribs, and start from a central stem that branches out into vegetal protuberances. Scrolls, palmettes and scrolls are set in rhythmic swells and crests that end in sensual foliated tulips. At the base, garlands of flowers complete the decoration. A putto, carved in a rounded form, sits amidst the foliage. His head is adorned with a crown of vine leaves and bunches of grapes.