Pair Russian Gilt Bronze Candlesticks in Style of Andrei Schreiber (1777-1843)

Our pair of finely sculpted and crafted gilt bronze candlesticks date from the first quarter of the nineteenth century and are believed to be of Russian origin. They feature faceted columnar standards, round bases with repeating anthemion motifs, and classical masks at the shoulder with additional anthemion designs around the candleholders, plus their original bobeches. 11.25 in tall and 5.5 in in diameter (28.6 by 14 cm). Note the exceptional attention to detail in use of a cap to the hardware on the undersides.

Their faceted standards and use of anthemions and palmettes were features found in the designs of Andrei Schreiber (1777-1843) of St. Petersburg, circa 1800. The artist modelled some works after the original designs of the French Empire period designer, Claude Galle (1758-1815), and the distinguishing characteristics of our pair (faceted columnar standards, masks and repeating anthemions) can be seen in Galle's designs. See lot 168 of Christie's sale 7745  in London on July 9, 2009, for a similar pair of faceted ormolu bronze candlesticks attributed to Schreiber.

There is rubbing wear, oxidation, scratches and a noticeable bend to the side of one base, plus signs of verdigris in crevices. There are old ink or painted inventory markings from a private or institutional collection on the underside of one. Neither stands perfectly upright, but each is structurally sound and not in need of restoration of any kind.

( French Louis XV XVI Empire style dore gilt russe chandelier paire des flambeaux d'epoque empire )