A Pair of Large Napoleon III Gilt-Bronze Candelabra Emblematic of Hunting

Description

A Pair of Large Napoleon III Gilt-Bronze Nine-Light Candelabra, Emblematic of Hunting.

Each conceived in the Louis XV style with rocaille stem supporting assymetrically modelled scrolled branches. The base modelled with hounds chasing a fox amidst flowers. The stem with pierced acanthus scrolls with a stoat hunting an exotic bird. On spreading pierced rococo base.

France, Circa 1850.

These unusual candelabra are an allegory of hunting and modelled with theatrical exuberance characteristic of the rococo style. Hunting subjects were especially popular during the reign of King Louis XV of France who was known for his love of the hunt. The subject was handled playfully in rococo art, as here with the hound chasing the fox who is itself chased from behind by another fox in turn. Likewise there is frivolity in the oversized bird being hunted by the stoat. These details lend these fine candelabra a sculptural quality.