PAIR OF Louis XIV style gilded wood tripod lamp-holders

Important pair of 19th century gilded, carved and chased wood porte-torchères. The bodies are composed of a superimposition of carved elements (crosses, balusters, bells...) forming a monumental candelabra shaft richly decorated with lambrequins, buttons, acanthus leaves, cartouches and rosary beads. It rises columnar on a tripod base with acanthus leaf scrolls. The lamp is presented on a circular gilded wood base, topped by an imitation candle in white-painted wood, housing a pagoda shade in pleated white silk and gilded braid. A central arm, activated by a pull switch, illuminates a central bulb, while two other small light arms, housing two smaller bulbs and providing lighter lighting, are activated by a small lever switch. Each torch holder comes with a gold-plated power cord. 

The torch holder under Louis XIV

At the end of the 17th century, chandeliers were still a rarity, and in order to avoid darkening painted ceilings with candle smoke, it became customary to place a pair of torchères on either side of a table, usually made of gilded wood. Lighting was thus provided by candelabras or girandoles, placed on these high torchieres. At the end of the 19th century, Napoleon III brought the torchiere holder back into fashion, eventually adapting it to the arrival of electricity in the home. The torchiere holder was electrified and fitted with a lampshade to blend in perfectly with the interiors of the time.

Circa: 1870

Dim: W: 56cm, D: 56cm, H: 190cm. Dim: W: 22in, D: 22in, H: 74,8in.
Dimensions without shade: H.154 cm x L.30 cm / 60,62 in x 11,81 in

Condition report: In used condition, with light wear and a few stains on the silk. The electrical system has been completely overhauled and is in perfect working order.