Pair of Louis XVI style gilt-bronze wall lights

Pair of Louis XVI Style Gilt-Bronze Wall Lights

A sophisticated pair of French neoclassical wall appliqués embodying the refined elegance of the mid-twentieth century, these wall light fixtures are inspired by celebrated 18th-century designs. Both decorative and functional, they bring together the artistry of Louis XVI style and the grandeur of historical French craftsmanship.

Origin: France
Date: Circa 1950
Material: Gilt bronze

Dimensions: Height: 42 cm (16.5 in), Width: 23 cm (9 in), Depth: 11 cm (4.3 in)

Condition: Excellent patina, very well preserved

This pair of wall lights takes inspiration from a notable model originally created for Louis XVI, evoking the opulent spirit of the period with a distinct neoclassical flair. The design, attributed to Jean-Jacques Bachelier, mirrors celebrated examples preserved in prestigious institutions such as the National Institute of Art History, Paris, and the Château of Versailles. Such wall appliqués were further popularised by renowned bronzier Galle, whose work for the Petit Trianon epitomised the era’s refined taste, making these wall light fixtures particularly desirable for collectors and connoisseurs of French decorative arts.

Notable Features:

• Superb craftsmanship displayed in the intricate casting of French horns which form the elegant dual arms of each wall light
• Exquisite ribbon backplate adorned with delicately modelled oak leaves and acorns, quintessential motifs of the Louis XVI style
• Faithful neoclassical details recalling museum-held originals and prominent commissions of the early nineteenth century
• The gilt bronze finish, exhibiting a rich, mellow patina, ensures these pieces impart an authentic period touch to any setting

Collectors will appreciate the rarity and historical resonance of these wall lights, which offer a striking parallel to those once gracing the salons of Versailles. Their distinguished provenance and desirable scale make them ideal for focused collecting or as centrepiece additions to refined interiors. Perfectly suited for display, these gilt-bronze wall light fixtures add both ambient lighting and a touch of French sophistication to any room, whether as part of an extensive decorative arts collection or as a statement in a classically styled home.