Pair Of Malachite Obelisks With Gilt Bronze Caryatid Decor, 19th Century

Magnificent pair of obelisks in malachite veneer decorated with caryatids in gilded bronze from the 19th century, from the Napoleon III period.

An opulent and very decorative set that completes a fireplace surround, can be placed in a library or even perfects your table decoration for an event.

Malachite is a mineral prized in jewelry because of its beauty but also in lithotherapy for its healing properties. Already known to the Greeks and Romans, this stone, reduced to powder, was used both as a body paint and as a dye for frescoes. It is attributed protective virtues and healing properties. In the 16th century, in Central Europe, it was used to promote the growth of children and alleviate their pain. It was in the 19th century, under the influence of Russian art, that malachite veneer became particularly fashionable.

In the middle of the century, this stone, with its superb shades of green, adorned many decorative art objects. This pair of obelisks, preserved in excellent condition, bears witness to the enthusiasm it aroused at that time.