Pair of bronze candlesticks depicting female caryatids, Egyptian style, marble, 19th century
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Pair of large bronze candlesticks with two patinas (gold and brown), stem representing two caryatids or draped women in the antique style carrying on their heads a cushion and a kalathos on which rests the candle holder, cylindrical pedestal in grey marble adorned with chains on a square base, in the style of Return from Egypt*, from the Consulate period 1800 early 19th century.
These candlesticks are in very good condition and are of exceptional quality.
Please note: slight scratches and wear consistent with age, tiny micro-chips on the edge of the marble, see photos.
Egyptian references became prominent after the Battle of the Pyramids and the capture of Cairo in July 1798 by General Bonaparte. Napoleon organized a scientific and cultural expedition to Egypt, bringing together men of the arts and sciences. The publication of the expedition's work, "Description of Egypt," begun in 1802 and finally published in 1826, was brimming with new information, inspiring numerous artists. An unexpected vision of these mysterious regions transformed the French environment through architecture and decorative arts. A veritable fashion began in France and spread throughout Europe, reaching as far as Russia. Houses, fountains, and interiors were decorated in the Egyptian style. This contemporary style of the Consulate is called the "Egyptian Revival." This style lasted only a very short time (about ten years), replaced by the Empire style. New ornaments then appeared: heads adorned with nemes headdresses, scarabs, sphinxes, winged lions, caryatids, and lotus details were widely incorporated into classical-style furniture, as well as into many other objects. The Sèvres porcelain factory created Egyptian-style tableware, sphinxes became andirons or inkwells, and candelabra were carried by Egyptian women. Chair legs were generally saber-shaped at the back and turned or shaped like animal hocks at the front, thus evoking Egyptian models. The crooked back was common; it would disappear during the Empire period.
See article in ProAntic Magazine