Ferdinand Barbedienne French, 1810-1892 A pair of fine gilt bronze and cloisonné enamel candlesticks Paris, dated 1872

each inscribed F. BARBEDIENNE, C. SEVIN INV 1872, D. ATTARgE F^IT 

Smith, Walter (ed.) The Masterpieces of the Centennial International Exhibition Illustrated, vol. II [Industrial Art], Philadelphia 1876-1878, pp. 378, 411(the model illustrated)

Wallis, George, The International Exhibition of 1871, [The Art Journal Catalogue of the International Exhibition], 1871, p. 65 (the model illustrated)

Jervis Simon, Art and Design in Europe and America 1800-1900, New York, 1987, p. 136 for a discussion on a fine bronze vase designed by Sevin and chased by Attarge, signed "D. Attarge 1871" now in the Victorian and Albert Museum (circ. 370-1960)

Claire Jones, Sculptors and Design Reform in France 1848-1895, Ashgate 2014, pp.66-77 (for a discussion on the collaboration between Barbedienne, Sevin and Attarge)

In very good condition and presentation. Each appears to have been well maintained as there is little wear, residue or discoloration throughout. There are a few minor areas of light oxidation to few recesses.
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.

Prominently displaying the names of the manufacturer, the designer, and the chaser, examples of this exquisitely produced pair of candlesticks were exhibited at both the London International Exhibition of 1871 and the Philadelphia Centennial Exhibition in 1876. Désiré Attarge, the chaser, worked on several pieces designed by Sevin, and the mastery of his execution often drew comparison with the finest work produced by gold and silver chasers. The rare visibility of the names of Attarge, Sévin, and Barbedienne on the present pair of candlesticks is testament not only to the collaboration required to create the highest and most innovative forms of industrial art, but also the understandable pride resulting from doing so. We have been unable to trace another extant pair of candlesticks published, so it is entirely possible that the present pair was that exhibited at the 1876 Philadelphia Centennial or London International Exhibition of 1872. An exceptional cabinet designed in a similar taste by Constant Sevin and produced by Maison Barbedienne for the 1867 Paris Exposition was sold in these rooms, April 26 2017, lot 271.