A pair of Russian gilt-bronze and bronze wall lights in the manner of Andrei Schreiber first quarter 19th century

each with a backplate in the form of a thyrsus centered by a lion mask flanked by laurel leaves with a ring in its jaws supporting three serrated, faceted candle-nozzles

Some very minor rubbing. They are scratched due to intensive cleaning. The backplate is cast in several sections on one. Unusual model in otherwise good 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."

Comparative Literature:
Igor Sychev, Russian Chandeliers, 1760-1830, Moscow, 2003, p. 118, nos. 521 and 522, for a virtually identically modelled wall-light, circa 1810, by Andrei Schreiber, at Tsarskoe Selo, reproduced here in fig. 1.

Andrei Schreiber was one of the most celebrated Russian bronzesmiths of the early part of the 19^th century. He spent time in St. Petersburg during the 1790's as part of his apprenticeship. Schreiber was of German origin and arrived from Yuriev (now Tartu) and opened his first workshop at the age of twenty-four. Schreiber achieved fame later when he began working from designs of Russian architects and very much developed his own style which was independent of contemporary French models. It is known that he worked for the celebrated architect K.I. Rocci in around 1816 and participated in the  decoration of new interiors of the Palaces of Pavlovsk, Anichkova, Zimnego, Elaginostrovskogo and Michelovskogo.