Pre-Lot Text
This model of candelabra, with maidens clad in the 'Antique' manner supporting branches, became immensely popular at the end of the 18th century and exists in many variants, both with paired and single maidens and in many different poses. The basic design of the draped nymph on these candelabra recalls the 1761 drawing executed by Gabriel de Saint Aubin (H. Ottomeyer, P. Pröschel, Vergoldete Bronzen, Munich, 1986, vol. 1, p. 254, fig 4.7.1) The design depicts two pairs of plaster models of figures supporting candelabra which were exhibited at the Salon du Louvre in 1761 by Etienne-Maurice Falconet (1716-1791), Director of the Scuplture studio at Sèvres from 1759 to 1766.