A suite of two pairs of carved ivory candlesticks and a tazza with silvered or gilt bronze mounts, Théodore Blard, Dieppe, circa 1865

the ivory stems of tazza and candlesticks carved as infant fauns entwined with grapes, the tazza bowl, the nozzles and circular bases cast with further bands of vine tendrils, fruit and scrollwork, each stamped: T. Blard

The tazza and matching candlesticks with shaggy-haired fauns are in excellent crisp condition; one of the smooth-haired boys and cracked and restored legs; the other has a slightly cracked leg. Good crisp condition in general.
"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."

Pierre Jacques Théodore Blard (1822-1902) was the son of Jacques Nicolas Blard, a celebrated Dieppe ivory carver and sculptor. Théodore and his elder brother Auguste took over their father’s large atelier in 1842 and exhibited their ivory carvings with some success at the 1855 Paris Exposition. The brothers separated in 1863 and Théodore moved to Le Havre for some years before opening another establishment in Dieppe.

For a signed tazza with similarly cast metalwork but the stem carved as a cloaked nymph, see Massol, Drouot, Paris, 25 June 2014, lot 61.