Pair of Empire candlesticks. France, early 19th century.

Pair of Empire candlesticks. France, early 19th century.
Mercury gilded bronze.
Original gilding and mercury patina.
Parallels: the Palace of Fontainebleau has six specimens similar to the pair under bidding.
Measurements: 10.5 cm (height) x 13 cm (base).
The excellent quality of execution and the eminent design of this pair of candlesticks allow us to relate them to the renowned master bronze artist Claude Galle (1759-1815). They rest on a circular base decorated with palmettes and have a fluted truncated conical shaft, narrower towards the base. The lighter is conceived as a capital embellished with vegetal motifs.