A near pair of gilt-and silvered-metal photophores Louis XIV, late 17th/early 18th century

each glass shade possibly later and of inverted bell-shaped form and with a moulded lip and fitted to a stepped octagonal base

The original glass in good order. The base of each has rubbing to detail from polish and wear. The original silvering has gone in most places and the surface is tarnished and discoloured.
"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:
Stéphane Faniel, Le XVIIe siècle français, Paris,1958, p. 118, fig.1.
F.J.B. Watson, The Wrightsman Collection, Vol. II, Furniture, Gilt-Bronze and Mounted Porcelain and Carpets,New York, 1966, p. 344, cat. no. 175 A and B.

These rare photophores can be compared to two similar flambeaux de jardin in silvered metal in the Louvre Museum Paris, made by an unidentifiable Parisian silversmith and also to a late 17th century pair in the Wrightsman collection in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York. There is also another pair in silvered bronze in the musée Bonnat, Bayonne, (inv. 70. bis).