Pierre - Philippe Thomire - Large Pair Of Empire Candlesticks With Zephyr Masks - 1810

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This exceptionally rare pair of French Empire period candlesticks with Zephyr masks in chiselled and mercury-gilded bronze, attributed to Pierre-Philippe Thomire (1751–1843), showcases the finest artistry. Each features a finely chiselled round base adorned with intricately detailed Zephyr masks and oak leaves, while the knurled stem is embellished with diamond-shaped rosettes, ornamental leaves, and listels. An identical pair of candlesticks is held in the collection of the Mobilier National in Paris (see last image).
Among these richly decorated baluster candlesticks, the four Zephyr heads adorning the base are particularly noteworthy for their symbolism. Zephyr, the Greek god of the west wind, heralds the arrival of spring, symbolising gentle breezes and renewal. The Zephyr mask was a decorative motif frequently employed by the preeminent bronzier of the Empire period, Pierre-Philippe Thomire.
An identical pair of candlesticks from the Empire period is inventoried at the Mobilier National. The 1818 inventory of the apartment of the Intendant General of the Extraordinary Estate, located on Place Vendôme, records this pair in the second salon: “two gilded candlesticks, round bases chiselled with ornamental leaves, Zephyr heads, oak leaves and a knurled stem, lozenges, rosettes, ornamental leaves, and stripes.” Much later, they appear in an 1856 inventory in the second salon of the new wing leading to the theatre, on the first floor of the Palais-Royal.
The craftsmanship of this pair reflects the exceptional skill of a master bronzier. Executed in mercury-gilded bronze, they display a striking contrast between matte and burnished gilding, preserving their original splendour. They remain in an exceptional state of conservation.


Origin: France, Empire period circa 1810.

Dimensions: Height 32.5 cm (12.8″), Base diameter: 14.5 cm (5.7″).

Literature

Collection du Mobilier National, Paris, inv. GML-3166.

Dupuy-Baylet (Marie-France), “L’Heure, le Feu, la Lumière. Les bronzes du Mobilier national 1800-1870”, Dijon, 2010, p. 102, notice 47.