Mid 19th Century Louis XVI Style French Curtain Holdbacks in Chiseled and Gilded Bronze- Set of 4

Details

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 distinctive and sturdy set of four antique curtain holdbacks. However, we believe the term "curtain holdbacks" is not entirely adequate to describe these objects; we prefer to use their original 18th-century French name, "embrasse". Each of the four pieces was crafted in two parts through elaborate and precise bronze castings featuring rocaille and foliage motifs. They were then assembled with exceptional skill and perfect symmetry. Highly specialized artisans subsequently executed meticulous hand-chiseling to enhance even the finest details. The four embrasse were finally gilded using the ancient mercury vapor gilding method, which gives the bronze its warm, rich golden hue. The complexity and duration of this artisanal process are fully justified by the extraordinary quality of the resulting pieces, which are regarded as rare and exceptional works of art. Due to their sturdiness and substantial size, these items, when mounted on a wall, can support particularly heavy and luxurious draperies. Also known as "fire gilding," this technique was widely used in France during the 18th and 19th centuries, particularly in regions with renowned workshops specializing in high-quality bronze work. Our embrasse were crafted in Paris between 1840 and 1850, in an artisanal workshop in the capital. At that time, Paris was the main center for the production of gilded bronzes, favored by its proximity to royal palaces and the increasing demand for luxury goods. Fire gilding was a complex and hazardous process but was highly esteemed for its aesthetic results and the durability of the finish. The process involved several steps:
1. Bronze Preparation: The items were carefully cleaned and polished to remove impurities and ensure uniform adhesion of the gilding.
2. Amalgam Preparation: Pure gold was dissolved in mercury to create a malleable compound.
3. Application of the Amalgam: This compound was spread onto the bronze surface using brushes or spatulas, ensuring complete coverage.
4. Heating: The object was heated in a furnace or with a direct flame, causing the mercury to evaporate and leaving a thin layer of gold bonded to the bronze.
5. Final Polishing: After gilding, the object was finished with agate tools or special fabrics to achieve a uniform brilliance.
Due to the toxicity of mercury vapors, this method was abandoned in the 19th century and replaced by safer techniques, such as electroplating. However, items gilded using the traditional method remain highly valued for their craftsmanship and historical significance. The four embrasse are in good condition. Over time, they have developed an original patina that enhances their unique charm and increases their aesthetic value.
Dimensions:Width: 8 cm. Depth: 16 cm. Height: 18 cm
For all our shipments, we use special packaging materials, such as wooden crates and polystyrene, to ensure maximum protection and safety of the items. See less