An exceptional pair of Louis XVI two tone ormolu girandoles

Description:

Paris, circa 1789, probably by Pierre Gouthière, after a design by Joseph Belanger
H. 60,5 cm
The central fluted stem with ionic capital, flanked by three S-shaped and acanthus-cast candle arms, surmounted by a baluster-shaped finial and central candlearm, on a tripartite base and toupie feet. Rest.
Exceptional pair of girandoles in the grotesque style, which stand out due to the different effects of the matt and bright ormolu decoration 'Dorure au mat' technique, the fine chiselling and the unique filigree composition. The 'Modele singulair' is unique in its design. The well-balanced composition around a fluted column-shaped shaft surrounded by three acanthus chandelier arms make these girandoles the most outstanding gilded bronzes made in France at this time.
A copy of a detailed expert report by Professor Dr Hans Ottomeyer is available.
Lit. H. Ottomeyer, P. Pröschel, Die Bronzearbeiten des Spätbarock und Klassizismus, München, 1986, p. 266 vol. 2.
Charlotte Vignon, The Frick Collection - Decorative Arts Handbook, New York 2015, p. 2 und p. 102.