Pierre - Philippe Thomire - Specatacular Pair Of Empire Candelabra “ Retour D’égypte ”

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An exceptional pair of large five-light Empire candelabra, Retour d’Égypte, crafted in gilt and patinated bronze, attributed to the famous bronzier Pierre-Philippe Thomire. Each candelabrum is fashioned as a finely sculpted female figure, classically draped and standing with arms gracefully upraised to support a crown of lights upon her head. The figures hold two rings, which are gripped in the mouths of lions mounted on either side of a cube resting atop their heads. The front of the cube is adorned with a masked face, and from this cube rises a single upright stem, richly decorated with leave patterns and culminating in a flame. This central stem issues five S-shaped trumpet branches, each featuring circular drip pans and twelve-sided nozzles. The composition is set upon a rectangular base embellished with palmette-bordered mask mounts, supported by a plinth adorned with intricate leaf patterns.


A notable feature of these candelabra is the masterful sculpting of the female figures, which, at an impressive height of 37 cm, constitute half the total height of each piece. We see the same design of these sculptures in various other pairs of candelabra and candlesticks, which are generally known to be Thomire models. Also the high quality of workmanship and refinement of the sculptures reflect the hand of a top bronzier like Pierre-Philippe Thomire. He was the greatest craftsman of his age to work in gilt bronze and was patronised by Louis XVI, Napoleon and Louis XVIII as well as foreign monarchy and aristocracy.


A similar model was acquired by King George IV (1762–1830) of the United Kingdom and delivered to Carlton House, where it was displayed in the Gilt Column Room on the Basement Floor. In subsequent years, the candelabra were transferred to Windsor Castle in February 1838 and later to Buckingham Palace on 28 April 1934.


These museum-quality Empire candelabra are exemplary representations of the Retour d’Égypte theme, which gained prominence during General Bonaparte’s Egyptian military campaign (1798–1801). Accompanying the expedition were numerous scientists whose findings culminated in the publication of La Description de l’Égypte in 1802. The rediscovery of ancient Egyptian culture inspired this distinctive style, which enjoyed only a brief period of popularity, making such pieces exceedingly rare.


This truly rare pair of early French Empire candelabra showcases exceptional craftsmanship, with exquisite sculpting and chiselling. The pieces retain their original mercury gilding, beautifully contrasting intricately chiselled matte and glossy finishes. They are remarkably well-preserved, representing an outstanding example of the period.


Origin:  France, Consulate or early Empire period circa 1800-1805.

Dimensions: Height: 74 cm (29.1″), Width: 31 cm (12.2″), Depth: 22 cm deep (8.7″). Square base: 14 x 14 cm (5.5″ x 5.5″).


Literature
- Royal Collection Trust, United Kingdom, inventory nrs. 372, 934936, 2400868.
- Christie’s, London, March 2011, where a comparable model appeared in auction.