A PAIR OF LOUIS XVI GILT-BRONZE CANDLESTICKS, THE DESIGN ATTRIBUTED TO JEAN-LOUIS PRIEUR, LATE 18TH CENTURY |

In overall excellent condition. Minor old marks and scratches consistent with age and use. Some tarnishing to gilt-bronze throughout.
"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."

In 1778, the maître doreur Prégermain delivered for the Comte d’Artois’s bedroom at the Château de Bagatelle two pairs of small candlesticks - “deux paires de petits flambeaux carquois en trepied trés richement ciselés et dorés d’or mat” (two pairs of small quiver tripod candlesticks richly chased and gilded mat) – a description matching the model of the present lot and which would be stylistically in perfect tune with the room design. A design for a wall applique by Prieur (Getty Museum 79.GA.179) shows the same arrow motif and cordate ending to shaft and knowing that Prieur collaborated with François-Joseph Bélanger, the architect of Bagatelle, he is the likely the creator of this model. Prieur also worked for the Comte d’Artois at Versailles delivering pieces for his boudoir turc, also gilt by Prégermain.  This model seems to have been particularly successful and produced with variations (see Christie’s NY, Alexander Collection, 30 April 1999, lot 10; Christie’s NY, 21 October 2004, lot 1090), although the present lot stands out as of very fine casting and chasing.