A pair of bronzed plaster Regency candelabra by Humphrey Hopper, 1807 and 1809

one modelled as Hebe the other of Diana, each surmounted by an ormolu candelabrum with twin scrolled branches with birds' head terminals and central flambeaux finials, flanked by hob-nail cut candleholders and drop-hung drip-pans, one circular base inscribed 'March 6. 1807 H. Hopper London', the other 'Decr. 1. 1809 H. Hopper London'

A very interesting and elegant pair of unusually large scale, in reasonable conserved condition. Both figures have undergone some restorations, notably to the shoulder of one. The right foot of one figure has some damage to the toes. The gilt brass is in good condition, with some minor signs of tarnishing. One nozzle has two staples to the glass to secure an old break. With old marks and scratches, typical of age and use.
"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."

Related Literature:

John Kenworthy-Browne, Hopper, Humphrey (1764/5–1844), Oxford University Press, 2004.
R. Gunnis, Dictionary of British Sculptors, 1660-1851, London, 1953, p.209.
J. Rutherford, Country House Lighting, 1660-1890, Woodbridge, 1992, p.135.

The sculptor and modeller Humphrey Hopper (1765-1844), entered the Royal Academy Schools in 1801.  He had already started exhibiting at the Royal Academy in 1799 and continued with regular exhibits at the Academy until 1835. In 1803 he was awarded a Gold Medal for his 'Death of Meleager'.
Hopper produced a number of plaster mythological figures, mostly Bacchic figures or muses, designed to hold lamps. These were usually signed and precisely dated and four of these survive at Lancaster House, London. His production further includes busts, statues, sculptures in marble, and a wide range of ornamental figures for chimney pieces and figures in plaster and terracotta intended as supports for lamps, candelabra and clocks. Hopper's most renowned national commission is the marble monument to General Hay in St Paul's Cathedral, commissioned by the government in 1814.