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An Unusual Pair of Early 20th Century Louis XV Style Bow Fronted Wall Lanterns Executed in Gilt Brass

French - Circa 1900

These fine wall lanterns feature two finely cast candle arms attached to a polished brass base and hammered reflector back plate. The sconces are chased with floral detailing. Surrounding the arms is a curved, bow fronted glass panel which was originally designed to protect the candles inside from draughts which might otherwise extinguish them. These glass panels are bordered with fine gilt metal mouldings in a restrained late rococo style, the metalwork chased with scroll work and foliage.

Wall lanterns were more popular in continental Europe than in England during the 18th and 19th centuries. Being much more expensive to produce than simple wall lights, mainly due to the costs associated with creating the curved glass panels, lanterns of this sort were restricted to the most prestigious of interior commissions and could only have been afforded by the most affluent of clients.

The wall lantern in England became associated with the work of the great decorator John Fowler in the 20th century. Fowler revived a particular pattern for a bow shaped wall light, supplying numerous examples of this sort to his prestigious clients. The lantern is still produced by Colefax and Fowler to this day and antique wall lanterns are particularly sought-after as a result. It is rare to find examples such as this with such good quality metalwork and where the glass has survived in perfect condition. These are real statement pieces that will have real impact in any interior.

Dimensions 

Width 8 1/4 inches - 21cm

Height 12 inches - 30cm

Depth 5 inches - 13cm