19th Century French Empire Gilt Bronze Iron Fire Fender

Description

A rare and important period French Empire dore bronze mounted iron fire fender, with rich provenance, adding character and historic … more A rare and important period French Empire dore bronze mounted iron fire fender, with rich provenance, adding character and historic depth, it's from the home of iconic American businessman and philanthropist, T. Boone Pickens (d.2019)

Richly decorated in finely sculpted and chiselled gilded bronze ormolu that are inspired by the neoclassical style of ancient Greek Roman and Egyptian style, very fashionable in early 19th century Paris. Lacking supports that would have allowed it to act as a chenet andiron, fireguard, or fire screen. Circa 1815

A remarkable example, the objet d'art having luxurious, regal presence. An exquisite way to accent a modern fireplace, mantel, floor or as a decorative object on a wall or tabletop.

Provenance:
Acquired from the estate of the late T. Boone Pickens (1928-2019). An American business magnate, billionaire, financier, and philanthropist.

Acquisition:
J. Garrett Auctioneers had the pleasure of presenting Pickens' collection of 18th and 19th Century furnishings and accessories. This piece comes from the iconic Texas and Oklahoma oil tycoons Preston Hollow, North Dallas home.

The breadth of T. Boone Pickens' career is impressive. He built one of the largest independent natural gas oil companies in the United States and flourished as an entrepreneur thereafter, generating hundreds of billions of dollars in the process. Among his lengthy accolades, Time magazine has identified him one of its "100 Most Influential People", Financial World named him "CEO of the Decade" in 1989, and Oil and Gas Investor identified him as one of the "100 Most Influential People of the Petroleum Century." less