A pair of fine gilt and patinated bronze three light figural candelabra in late Louis XV taste, by Henri Vian (French, 1860-1905), late 19th century

A pair of fine gilt and patinated bronze three light figural candelabra in late Louis XV taste, by Henri Vian (French, 1860-1905), late 19th century, the foliate and fruiting sconces above scrolled conforming reeded arms supported by putti, the rockwork socles above waisted and guilloche moulded square section bases, each inscribed h. Vian to the plinth

45cm high, 32cm wide

Henri Vian's Parisian foundry was well-known for its production of fine quality bronze lighting and ornament in various 18th century styles.

The putti adorning the present lot are closely inspired by Roman Baroque models, said to have originated in the circle of Francois Duquesnoy (1597-1643) and Alessandro Algardi (1598-1654). The putto playing the horn is usually depicted with a further similar instrument below (see for example Christie's New York, The Abbott Guggenheim Collection: A New York Kunstkammer, 28 January 2015, lot 105), while the second seated infant is often portrayed with a conch. Two pairs are also held in the Wallace Collection. In the Museum's catalogue, Robert Wenley makes specific mention of the models' popularity as mounts for candelabra in later centuries. One such pair similar to the present lot, dating from the early 19th century, is illustrated there. See Robert Wenley, French Bronzes in the Wallace Collection, London 2002, p. 84

Condition Report:
The candelabra bear the usual minor marks, knocks, scuffs and scratches overall consistent with age and use. The patina of the bronzes is a warm mid brown, with a reddish tinge to the extremities, including the hair. The putto holding the conch has a screw head to the rear right arm, which was cast in two parts. This is probably due to the manufacturing process as opposed to a restoration. Overall these are in perfectly satisfactory condition.