A fine pair of bronze, gilt-bronze and marble candelabra Empire, early 19th century

each in the form of a neo-classical figure in drapery, one holding two apples in her hand supporting a leaf cast cornucopia issuing three foliate cast candelarms entwined with two serpents, each issuing a further candle-nozzle with a central raised candle nozzle on a beaded socle with ribbon-tied berried laurel border on a square base

Colour slightly darker and more natural and attractive than in the catalogue illustration. Very good detail to casting and chasing. The gilt-bronze is slightly dirty and would benefit from a light clean according to taste. One of the candlearms above the figure with the apples has been previously resoldered but this has been well executed and hardly noticeable. The arms on same candelabrum has gilding which is quite rubbed. Some miniscule chips to marble bases, but these are hardly noticeable. On the other candelabrum, the gilding is quite worn on base of one of the arms, but can easily be regilt. The casting of figures good. A beautiful model. In overall good original condition.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

These unusual candelabra are a rare model with the nozzles issuing from a serpent's jaw. S. Chadenet, Les styles Empire et Restauration, Paris, p. 70,  illustrates a candelabrum with an Egyptian female figure holding snakes supporting candle-nozzles in their jaws, in the Musée Marmottan, Paris.

A pair of candelabra with neo-classical standing female figures holding a snake entwined candlebranch on plinth bases, was sold as lot 335, in these Rooms, 13th June 2001.