Exceptionally rare pair of Empire candlesticks attributed to Gérard-Jean Galle
Large pair of Empire candlesticks attributed to Gérard-Jean Galle
An exceptional quality pair of gilt bronze Empire candlesticks attributed to Gérard-Jean Galle (1788-1846), son and successor of the top bronzier Claude Galle. This pair of gilt bronze candlesticks is of a royal and imposing size with unusually large dimensions of the base. They have a circular base with a very rare and stunningly beautiful decoration of four different winged putti playing a musical instrument: a double flute, a lyre, a triangle and a cymbal. This magnificent scene, an allegory of music, is surrounded by an annular decoration of flowers.
The sumptuous base supports a pedestal with decoration of leaves surmounted by the slightly fluted conical shaft. At the top the shaft ends in an amazingly chiseled capital topped by a wreath of flowers and berries. From this capital rises the candle holder in the shape of a Medici vase. The quality of making and the superbly detailed chiseling are befitting for the top bronzier Gérard-Jean Galle.
This exceptional and superbly chiseled pair of Empire candlesticks has been executed in mercury gilded bronze with a sublime mat and shiny gilding. They are in an excellent state of preservation.
Details of this pair of Empire candlesticks
Origin: Paris, circa 1815.
Dimensions: 33 cm high, diameter of the circular base: 14 cm.
Weight: 2,4 kg (for the pair).
Gérard-Jean Galle (1788-1846)
Gérard-Jean Galle, who was the eldest son of the renowned bronzier, Claude Galle (1759-1815), took over the family business at rue Vivienne on his father’s death. Soon he proved that he could maintain its excellent repute. Regarded as one of the best in Paris, he was patronised by an elite clientele. Later, in 1819 Gérard won a silver medal at the Exposition de l’Industrie for an outstanding collection of bronzes consisting predominantly of light fittings and clock cases. The latter he supplied to some of the best Parisian clock makers including Bourdier. Gérard-Jean Galle also specialized in making clocks with corresponding candelabra, of which at least two are at Stockholm Castle.
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