Pair of bronze candlesticks with eagles and tassels

Probably Austrian or Italian, 19th century
A rare and elegant pair of finely chiseled and gilded bronze candlesticks, featuring a particularly dramatic and ornamental neoclassical-inspired design.
Each piece rests on a tripod base ending in powerful lion’s claws, a traditional symbol of strength and sovereignty.
The uprights are formed of three eagles set against a boldly modeled background, with stylized wings, evoking the imperial iconography inherited from Roman antiquity and widely adopted in the decorative arts of Central Europe during the 19th century.
The central shaft is punctuated by a large faceted pine cone. In ancient symbolism, the pine cone represents fertility, eternity, and spiritual rebirth. Here, it serves as a major sculptural element, rendered with remarkable precision in the chiseling.
The upper section unfolds into a veritable cascade of finely chiseled and veined leaves, spreading out around the shade. At the tip of each leaf hang carved pendants that enliven the whole piece through the interplay of light and transparency, creating a precious effect reminiscent of certain types of lighting fixtures.
The piece captivates with the great richness of its decorative vocabulary: palmettes, engraved friezes, stylized foliage, and motifs inspired by antiquity come together to form a refined architectural composition of remarkable balance.
The cast iron and chiseling are of very high quality, with numerous details worked with a chisel to give depth and vitality to the reliefs. The luminous and deep gilding elegantly highlights the ornamental richness of these pieces and attests to the high quality of the craftsmanship.
Height: 30 cm Diameter: 12 cm

Ref: KFTU3TMKIG