A pair of gilt-bronze chenets Louis XVI, circa 1770

each surmounted by a flaming neo-classical urn hung with oak leaf swags above a lion mask and drapery flanked by a further flaming neo-classical urn and an obelisk on scrolled corbels interposed by pierced lambrequins 

In overall good original condition. The colour of the gilding is more golden and less greenish and much more attractive than in the catalogue photograph. Very nice detail to casting. The gilding is slightly dirty and would benefit from a light clean according to taste. Unusual model.
"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."

Two pairs of almost identical chenets were delivered by Pitoin the court bronzier to the Garde Meuble de la Couronne in 1767. These chenets, although of differerent size and with a central leg surmounted by a vase, had identical voluted legs and obelisks draped with swags, large flaming urns and similar lion masks. One of the pairs was placed in the bedroom of Madame Victoire at Saint-Hubert and the other was sent to the Château de Compiègne. On 29th November 1773, Pitoin delivered another similar pair to the Comte d'Artois at Versailles, see Svend Eriksen, Early Neo-classicism in France, London, 1972, pp. 357-359.

Another similar pair without the lambrequin frieze, was sold from the collection of Suzanne Saperstein `Fleur de Lys', Beverly Hills, CA, Sothebys, New York, 19th April 2012, lot 170.