A pair of gilt-bronze chenets, in the manner of Prieur Louis XVI, circa 1785

each surmounted by a neo-classical vase and cover with oak leaf and acorn swags and stylised Greek key border with a pomegranite finial on a plinth base applied with a paterae on each side and with fluted canted corners, the stretcher cast with guilloche enclosing flowerheads and surmounted by a cherub in drapery with its hands outstretched terminating in a smaller plinth; finial on one end lacking and gilding worn

Colour of gilding less greenish and more attractive than in the catalogue photograph. Very attractive model and detail to casting. The stretcher cast with guilloche joining the chenets together has not been photographed. The gilding needs attention as it is rubbed and dirty, but once restored this pair will look most attractive.
"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 chenets are loosely based upon  a design attributed to Jean-Louis Prieur (maître in 1769), circa 1770 from the Odiot album illustrated in H. Ottomeyer, P. Pröschel et al., Vergoldete Bronzen, Vol. I, Munich, 1986, fig. 3.14.7.
Jean-Louis Prieur is first recorded in 1765, and was received Master in 1769. He established his workshop in the Faubourg St-Denis and his clientèle included the French Royal family, also the comte d'Artois and the Prince de Condé. Prieur also worked for clients including King Stanislas-Auguste Poniatowski, King of Poland, between 1766-early 1770's.