Pair Antique French Directoire Nubian Middle Eastern Style Gilt Bronze Sconces
This pair of antique (nineteenth century) gilt bronze sconces are unusual for their cold-painted figurative busts dressed in turbans. From the Orientalist period, the figures are adorned in jewelry and eminate from lozenge-shaped plates with leafy robes with tassels. Each is newly wired and ready for installation. Each measures 11.5 by 8.5 by 3 in (29.2 by 21.6 by 7.6 cm). Condition of each is very good. Gilt surfaces are original, and there is visible wear to the noses of each cold-painted face. Fine examples of Orientalist period lighting such as these sconces are rare and difficult to find.
For a pair that appears to have eminated from the same molds and foundry, see the Christie's sale in Paris on September 19-21 in 2011, lot 805, which sold for 9,375 euro.
