A FINE GEORGE III CARVED GILT WOOD AND BRONZED TORCHERE circa 1785

of tripod form, the three paneled legs with rams' head capitals and terminating in hoof feet, supported on a stepped molded triangular plinth on turned feet, and centered by a turned column entwined with serpents, supporting a circular platform with a gadrooned collar below and with a stepped swirl fluted ornament supporting a candelabra with three candle arms centered by three scrolled elements all ornamented with applied curved leaves and centered by a finial.

Restored condition, some minor chips to the gesso of the snakes, re-gilt with some minor chips and wear to the gilding, overall with some old marks and scratches consistent with age and use.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

This unusual torchère appears to be identical to a pair in the Palladio Room at Clandon Park, Surrey. These were probably acquired by George Onslow, the 4^th Baron (d. 1814),who was subsequently created Baron Cranley, Viscount Cranley and the Ist Lord Onslow. A Lord in Waiting to George III, he was also on intimate terms with George, the Prince of Wales.    

Others recorded of this model include a pair sold Christie's, London, February 20, 1958, lacking their candelabra, a pair soldChristie's, New York, April 29, 1992, lot 56, and a pair sold in these rooms, January 22, 1994, lot 185.

See:

Ralph Edwards, The Dictionary of English Furniture, 1953, vol. III, p. 152, fig. 27

Christopher Hussey, English Country Houses: Early Georgian 1715-1760, London, 1955, 'Clandon Park', pp. 97-103, fig. 149