.jpg?w=1)
Lot Essay
These impressive candelabra, with imposing classical maidens holding torch-like candlearms, exemplify the striking, monumental interpretations of Roman bronziers of the last quarter of the 18th century such as Giuseppe Valadier (d.1839) and Francesco Righetti (1749-1829). A series of designs of circa 1795 by Giuseppe Boschi features large scale figural supports for candelabra in the form of Vestal Virgins and Bacchantes in a similar vein to these candelabra (illustrated in A. González-Palacios, Il Tempio del Gusto: Roma e il Regno delle Due Sicilie, Milan, 1984, vol. II, pp. 128-9, fig. 278).
A pair of candelabra with identical seated maidens, but more elaborate candlearms, was sold in these Rooms, 21 June 2000, lot 195, (£82,950 inc. premium). Another pair of Roman candelabra with white marble classical maidens on a similarly monumental scale was sold from the collection of Akram Ojjeh, Christie's Monaco, 11-12 December 1999, lot 9 (FF 550,000).
A pair of candelabra with identical seated maidens, but more elaborate candlearms, was sold in these Rooms, 21 June 2000, lot 195, (£82,950 inc. premium). Another pair of Roman candelabra with white marble classical maidens on a similarly monumental scale was sold from the collection of Akram Ojjeh, Christie's Monaco, 11-12 December 1999, lot 9 (FF 550,000).