Pair of Late 19th Century Empire Gilt Bronze Ormolu Wall Appliques of Arms Holding Caduceus Staffs, France

Description

Pair of late 19th century Empire gilt bronze ormolu wall appliques of arms holding Caduceus staffs, France

By: unknown
Material: … more Pair of late 19th century Empire gilt bronze ormolu wall appliques of arms holding Caduceus staffs, France

By: unknown
Material: bronze, copper, metal, cord, ormolu
Technique: cast, molded, gitl, patinated, polished, metalwork
Dimensions: 6.5 in x 9 in x 18.5 in
Date: late 19th century
Style: Empire, Neoclassical, Napoleon III
Place of origin: France

Late 19th-century French Empire-style wall appliques, crafted in gilt bronze ormolu, manifest as a striking pair of sconces. Each features a patinated black arm emerging from an ornate circular backplate, grasping a golden Caduceus, the iconic staff of Hermes, adorned with intertwined serpents and perched eagles atop, their wings spread in a display of imperial grandeur. The backplates are richly embellished with Neoclassical motifs, including laurel wreaths and foliate designs, exemplifying the Empire style's penchant for ancient Roman symbolism.

The juxtaposition of dark patinated arms against the lustrous gilt bronze creates a dramatic visual contrast, while the intricate detailing showcases the exceptional craftsmanship of the era. The caduceus, traditionally associated with commerce and negotiation, adds a layer of symbolic significance to these elegant illuminators.

Demonstrating the enduring influence of Napoleonic aesthetics, these sconces embody the Empire style's harmonious fusion of classical elements with 19th-century French sophistication, making them captivating examples of decorative art from this period. less