A Pair of French Chinoiserie Patinated Bronze Candle Sticks

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A pair of gilt bronze candlesticks from the 19th century.

They are in the form of a crane or heron … Read more A pair of gilt bronze candlesticks from the 19th century.

They are in the form of a crane or heron standing on the back of a dragon turtle, with a lotus plant in its beak forming the candle sconces.

The crane and the turtle are a common motif in Japanese art and mythology. Both animals are symbols of longevity and good fortune. The Japanese saying, "The crane lives for a thousand years and the tortoise for ten thousand," highlights this association. The crane also symbolizes marital love and fidelity, as they are monogamous and mate for life. Candlesticks with this motif were sometimes used as Buddhist ritual implements. See less