Les Ailes Noires – Empire Wall Candelabra, Pair

Les Ailes Noires is a pair of Empire-style wall candelabra: electrified wall sconces in which winged figures in near-black patinated bronze hold up gilt branches of light.

Each figure is an adult male with short curled hair and a muscled torso, his dark wings folded back and both arms raised above his head to grip the stem of the gilt candelabrum. Below the waist the body passes into a sheath of gilt acanthus leaves ending in a hanging palmette, in the manner of a classical term. The branches carry torch-shaped sockets with flame finials, scrolls and rosettes, twelve lights across the pair.

Setting dark patinated bodies against gilt mounts was a favourite contrast of the Empire period, used by bronziers such as Pierre-Philippe Thomire (1751–1843) and Claude Galle (1759–1815). A pair of candelabra by Thomire of about 1810–15, now in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, shows winged Victories raising their arms to support the candle branches, though fully gilt.

Made new and entirely by hand, the sconces are 90 cm high and 48 cm deep, so they need a wall clear of passing traffic; hung either side of a large painting on the long wall of a dining room, they frame it in light. The black wings show strongly against a pale wall.

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.