A pair of French bronze chenets, after the model by Antoine Moreau in Louis XV style, 19th century

each rococo scrolled foliate base supporting a triton holding aloft a conch shell; probably originally gilded (2)

In overall good condition. Evidence of previous gilding beneath one. In need of a light clean as surface dirt and verde gris. Attractive detail to casting. Two holes in support of one for a previous fixing.
"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."

Comparative Literature:
Daniel Alcouffe, Anne Dion Tenenbaum, Gérard Mabille, Gilt bronzes in the Louvre, Dijon, 2004, pp 64-65, no. 26.

This pair of chenets are based upon an original 18th century model bequeathed by René Fribourg to the Louvre in 1963, signed Antoine  Moreau. They were made for the Prince de Condé and it has been suggested that the original model may be by the sculptor Lambert-Sigisbert Adam (1700-1759). There is another 18th century pair of this model in the Wrightsman collection, Catalogue no. 193. On 29th November 1715, Lazare Duvaux sold to the M. le Marquis de Voyer:
Deux garnitures de feu en bronze représentant des figures marines très -bien ciselées...600l. (Livre -Journal No. 1269).
The existence of 19th century copies attests to the great success enjoyed by this model throughout the centuries.