Pair Of Andirons In Bronze

Spectacular pair of bronze andirons from the end of the 19th century. These fires represent busts of fauns or satyrs/satyresses in terms *. In brown patina, the lower torso and covered with a ram's skin in gilded bronze.
The molded and gilded sheath is supported at its base by 2 claws in leafy ram's legs. In a neo-mythological spirit at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries, the style is representative of a contemporary view of antiquity at the end of the 19th century (eg: "Prière sur l'Acropole" by E. Renan, "l' Afternoon of a Faun" by Debussy…). In the design of our andirons, we notice the faces with a supple, poetic line still marked by the hand of the sculptor, in the manner of Rodin. These lamps inspired by the antique are the witnesses of an artistic period in renewal (Impressionism...) with a simplified work in a freer, realistic movement and in a more contemporary and innovative 1900 style. By their rarity they are probably a commission for an interior imbued with other neo-antique reminiscences by the aesthetics of the master of the place. Their sculptural design allows them to be posed as statues and not only in a fireplace. Beautiful quality of casting and proportions. Very good condition with slight signs of wear on the gilding.
* head and torso with no arms