A pair of Louis XV patinated bronze and ormolu chenets circa 1745

Jacques Perrin, Paris, 1983

Rubbing to patinated bronze and to ormolu, most to edges and extremities. Ormolu with minor traces of oxidation and some surface dirt. Both pieces with 1/2 in. hole to top of base, probably to accomodate log support. In otherwise good overall 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.
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.

There are a number of references in eighteenth century inventories and sale catalogues to chenets in the form of horses. These include the inventories after the deaths of Jacques and Rose Caffiéri in 1755 and 1770 respectively. References in sales catalogues include the Louis Jean Gaignat sale (Rémy and Poirier, February 14-22, 1769, lot 194) and the Bonnenet Sale (Poivier, December 4-14, 1771, lot 112). The drawing by Saint-Aubin in his annotated copy of the Gaignat sale shows that the horses appear to be this model. Chenets incorporating this model of rearing horse, but with different bases, are in the Rothschild Collection at Waddesdon Manor (see G. de Bellaigne, The James A. de Rothschild Collection at Waddesdon Manor, vol. III, Furniture, Clocks and Gilt Bronzes, 1974 pp. 720-721, no. 181) and the Huntington Collection (see S. Bennett, French Art of the Eighteenth Century at the Huntington, 2008, pp. 184-185, no. 74).