Details
Description
This striking pair of 1920s French bronze ram’s head wall sconces exemplifies the sculptural richness and classical symbolism that define …
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This striking pair of 1920s French bronze ram’s head wall sconces exemplifies the sculptural richness and classical symbolism that define high-quality French decorative arts of the early 20th century. Expertly cast in solid bronze and finished in a warm, luminous gilt, these sconces are conceived as both architectural lighting and ornamental sculpture, designed to command attention even when unlit.
Each sconce is centered by a boldly modeled ram’s head motif, a powerful symbol in classical and neoclassical design representing strength, authority, vitality, and sacrifice. The rams’ features are deeply articulated, with pronounced curling horns, expressive facial detailing, and crisp surface chasing that reflects the hand-finished quality of the bronze. From the central mount extend elegantly scrolling arms terminating in three candle-style light holders per sconce, creating a dramatic, symmetrical lighting composition ideal for flanking a mantel, doorway, or grand mirror.
The arms are richly decorated with acanthus leaves, scrolling volutes, and fluted bobeches, all meticulously detailed to create depth and shadow. The vertical backplates are architecturally proportioned, grounding the design while allowing the sculptural elements to project outward with theatrical presence. The original gilt surface exhibits a beautiful patina, enhancing the sculptural contours and lending the pieces an authentic sense of age and refinement.
Stylistically, these sconces reflect the Louis XVI and Neoclassical revival movements that were highly fashionable in France during the 1920s, a period when historic French motifs were reinterpreted with exceptional craftsmanship for luxury interiors. Such pieces were often commissioned for hôtels particuliers, Parisian apartments, and grand townhouses, where lighting served as both functional necessity and artistic statement.
Perfect for use in a formal living room, dining room, library, or entry hall, this rare pair of French bronze ram’s head sconces offers dramatic visual impact and timeless elegance. Their strong classical symbolism, superb casting quality, and richly detailed ornamentation make them highly desirable to collectors of antique lighting and French decorative arts. Whether incorporated into a traditional interior or used as a bold contrast in a more eclectic space, these sconces embody the enduring grandeur and artistry of early 20th-century French design.
Dimensions: 18 inches high x 12 inches wide x 8.5 inches deep
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- Dimensions
- 12ʺW × 8.5ʺD × 18ʺL
- Styles
- Neoclassical
- Period
- 1920s
- Country of Origin
- France
- Item Type
- Vintage, Antique or Pre-owned
- Materials
- Bronze
- Condition
- Good Condition, Original Condition Unaltered, Some Imperfections
- Color
- Bronze
- Power Sources
- Up to 120V (US Standard)
- Hardwired
- Condition Notes
good condition. No major issues aside from minor signs of wear. we recommend all lighting to be rewired.
The vendor has confirmed this piece is in working order.
good condition. No major issues aside from minor signs of wear. we recommend all lighting to be rewired.
The vendor has confirmed this piece is in working order. less
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