Pair of gilded wood tripod torch holders in the Louis XIV style

Important pair of gilded, carved and chiseled wood torchholders, from the 19th century. The bodies are composed of a superposition of sculpted elements (crosses, balusters, bells...) forming a monumental candelabra shaft richly decorated with mantling, buttons, acanthus leaves, cartouches and string of grains. The set rises in column on a tripod base with acanthus leaves. The lamp is presented on a circular base in gilded wood, surmounted by an imitation of a candle in white painted wood, hosting a pagoda shade in pleated white silk and golden braids. A central arm activated by a pull switch allows to light a central bulb while two other small arms of lights hosting two small bulbs and allowing a lighter lighting, are activated by a small lever switch. Each torch holder has a golden power cord. 

The torch holder under Louis XIV

At the end of the 17th century, chandeliers were still rare and it was in order not to blacken the painted ceilings by the smoke of the candles that one took the habit of arranging a pair of torchieres on each side of a table, generally in gilded wood. The lighting is thus ensured by candelabras or girandoles, posed on these high torchères. It is at the end of the XIXth century that the torchiere holder is given to the taste of the day under Napoleon III and ended up being adapted to the arrival of electricity in the homes. Thus, the torch holder is electrified and dressed with a lampshade to blend 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 some stains to the silk. The electrical system has been fully serviced and is in perfect working order.