A PAIR OF LOUIS XVI ORMOLU CHENETS circa 1770

With rubbing, oxidation and surface dirt. In good 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.

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