Late 18th Century Louis XVI Style Pair of French Bronze Curtain Holdbacks, Gilded and Chiseled

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Description

We kindly invite you to read the full description, as we aim to provide detailed technical and historical information to … Read more We kindly invite you to read the full description, as we aim to provide detailed technical and historical information to ensure the authenticity of our items.
This is a unique and sturdy pair of antique curtain holdbacks. However, we feel that the term "curtain holdbacks" does not adequately describe these items. Instead, we prefer to use their original 18th-century French term, "embrasse." Crafted in two separate pieces, these objects feature intricate bronze castings adorned with rocaille and leaf motifs. They were assembled with exceptional skill and perfect symmetry. Following this, expert artisans carried out meticulous hand-chiseling to highlight even the finest details. The two embrasses were then gilded using the ancient technique of mercury vapor gilding, which imparts a warm and vibrant golden hue to the bronze. The complex and labor-intensive craftsmanship that went into creating these rare and exceptional works of art is fully justified by their outstanding quality. Due to their sturdiness and substantial size, these items, once mounted on a wall, can support even the heaviest and most elaborate draperies. Also known as "fire gilding," this technique was particularly popular in France between the 18th and 19th centuries, especially in regions known for high-quality bronze workshops. Our two embrasse were crafted in Paris between 1780 and 1790 in an artisanal workshop in the capital. At that time, Paris was the main hub for the production of gilded bronze, thanks to its proximity to royal palaces and the growing demand for luxury items. Fire gilding was a complex and hazardous process, but it was highly valued for its aesthetic results and the durability of the gilding. The process involved several steps: Preparing the bronze: Objects were meticulously cleaned and polished to remove impurities and ensure uniform adhesion of the gilding. Creating the amalgam: Pure gold was dissolved in mercury to form a soft compound, which was then spread onto the surface of the bronze. Applying the amalgam: The compound was evenly applied with brushes or spatulas. Heating the object: The object was heated in an oven or with a direct flame, causing the mercury to evaporate and leaving a layer of gold adhered to the bronze. Final polishing: The gilded surface was refined using agate tools or cloths to achieve a uniform brilliance. This method, extremely toxic due to mercury vapor inhalation, was abandoned in the 19th century and replaced by safer techniques, such as electroplating. However, objects crafted using mercury gilding remain highly sought after today for their exceptional quality and historical value. The two embrasse are in good condition. Over time, they have developed an original patina, which enhances their aesthetic appeal and makes them even more valuable.
Measurements: Width: 8 cm, Depth: 16 cm, Height: 18 cm
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