Lot 61
  • 61

A pair of gilt-bronze wall appliques, Paris mid 19th century

Estimate
60,000 - 80,000 GBP
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Description

  • each: 92cm. high, 3ft.¼in.
possibly by Beurdeley with burnished and matt gilding, each cast with a pair of winged sphinxes and garlands of flowers

Condition

In very good condition with some minor dirt and tarnishing in places. Three of the garlands with a slightly more orange tone to gilding.
"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."

Catalogue Note

Comparative Literature:
H.Ottomeyer/P. Pröschel, Vergoldete Bronzen, Vol. I,  Munich, 1986, p. 290, fig. 4.16.9. 
These wall lights represent the epitome of the Louis XVI neo-classical taste. The first interpreter of this new style was Jean-François Forty (active 1760-1800). There is in the Musée des arts décoratifs in Paris a design by Forty circa 1780, upon which these wall lights are modelled, illustrated by, op. cit., p. 290, fig. 4.16.9., reproduced here in fig.1.