A pair of Louis XVI style gilt-bronze two-light wall-appliques, Paris, third quarter 19th century, after a design by Jean-François Forty

COMPARATIVE LITERATURE

H.Ottomeyer/P. Pröschel, Vergoldete Bronzen, Vol. I, Munich, 1986, p. 290, fig. 4.16.9. 

These wall-lights showcasing a refined casting and rich design undoubtedly embody the Louis XVI neo-classical taste which continued to be a source of inspiration for French tastemakers, fondeurs and cabinetmakers in the 19th century.

One of the first interpreters of the Louis XVI style was Jean-François Forty (active 1760-1800), whose drawing for a wall applique, dated circa 1780, published in his recueil of drawings Oeuvres de Sculptures en bronze, contenant Girandoles, Flambeaux, Feux, Pendules, Bras, Cartels, Baromètres, et Lustres, was used as a basis for the execution of the present pair (illustrated op. cit., p. 290, fig. 4.16.9).

In the late 19th century, the well-established Beurdeley dynasty enjoyed great success in executing 18th century designs in the Louis XVI style with their 19th century excellent craftsmanship. For example, a pair of wall lights stamped BY (for Beurdeley) was sold at Sotheby's, London, 11 March 1994, lot 109, these were designed after Feuchère in a manner much similar than the present pair.