Bronze Sphinx Candlesticks - Pair

These bronze candlesticks take the form of winged sphinxes in brown-patinated bronze, each seated on a plinth of white-veined black marble and carrying a single candle socket on its head.

The sphinx is the Greek type: a woman's head with the hair drawn back under a band and two long braided lappets over the shoulders, a bare bust, a lion's body with clawed forepaws, and feathered wings swept up and back. At the rear the tail curls along the flank and ends in a small rosette. Upright narrow leaves dress the socket beneath a flared rim.

This winged, female sphinx is the one Oedipus faced in Greek myth, the creature that tormented travellers with a riddle. The sphinx returned to French decoration after Napoleon's Egyptian campaign of 1798–99: the Metropolitan Museum of Art notes that the first volumes of the Description de l'Égypte appeared in 1809, and that gilt-bronze fittings shaped like sphinxes were set on furniture of the period.

Each sphinx is cast by hand using the lost-wax process (cire perdue). At 22 cm high, the pair can stand either side of a clock on a mantel shelf. The two figures are cast alike rather than as mirror images, so both face the same way.

Worldwide shipping
We work with reliable freight carriers worldwide who are experienced in transporting heavy and delicate works of art. This ensures that your order arrives safely. Shipping costs are calculated on the basis of the weight, dimensions and destination of your order. We aim for competitive rates and provide a detailed quote once the order has been confirmed.

Estimated delivery times vary depending on your location and the size of the order. Domestic shipments usually take 3-7 working days, while international deliveries can take 3-60 working days.

For shipments outside the EU, please note that import duties and taxes may apply under the rules of your country. These costs are not included in our prices and are payable by the buyer.

Warranty
We aim for the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship in our bronze sculptures. All our products carry a 24-month warranty against defects in materials and workmanship under normal use and care. This warranty covers any problems that arise during this period; we will repair or replace the product free of charge. For warranty questions, please contact our customer service.