A fine pair of gilt and patinated eight-light bronze candelabra Empire, early 19th century

each with standing female figure in drapery holding in one hand a trumpet and in the other three candlearms with a further raised central nozzle, the socles with a band of alternating discs and satyr masks above a band of dancing maidens, on three addorsed winged lions, on concave-sided triform base

Galerie Antiquité Damiano, Joseph Damiano, 36, Rue Segurane, Nice, purchased in 1986.

Hans Ottomeyer, Peter Pröschel, Vergoldete Bronzen, Munich 1986, vol. I, p. 334, fig. 5.2.16.
See Jean-Pierre Samoyault, Musée national du Chateau de Fontainebleau. Catalogue des collections de mobilier, pendules et bronzes d'ameublement entrés sous le Premier Empire, Paris 1989, p. 157, no. 134, for a virtually identical pair with eight candlebranches which were delivered by Galle in 1807 for the salon de l'impératrice at the Palace of Fontainebleau, reproduced here in fig. 1. There it is recorded on 23rd March 1808 as 'deux pairs (de candélabres) à figures bronzées sur colonne et socle triangulaire portant 8 lumières à 2000, 4000'. One of the pairs in 1810, was in the salon d'angle de l'appartement du grand connétable, the other in le salon de l'appartement au rez-de chaussée de la cour d'honneur.
Also see Ottomeyer et. al., p. 334, fig. 5.5.16, for two similar pairs which were delivered by Pierre Francois Feuchère to the Câteau de Compiègne in 1810 for 3.800 Francs.

In overall good condition with the inevitable minor dents, marks, scratches and wear to the patination and gilding due to age and use. Gilding partly refreshed, especially to the candlearms. Minor warping to the candlearms. There is a very small plug to one of the figure's right thumb. Supports to drip-pans with small drill-holes due to former electrification.
"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."