Pair of 19th Century French Louis XVI Gilt Bronze Fireplace Chenets Andirons

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Description

This finely cast pair of antique fireplace chenets brings impressive architectural detail and refined Louis XVI elegance to a hearth. … Read more This finely cast pair of antique fireplace chenets brings impressive architectural detail and refined Louis XVI elegance to a hearth. Crafted in France circa 1880, the substantial bronze chenets retain a warm gilt finish and are richly decorated with classical motifs throughout.
Each chenet is anchored by a stepped rectangular pedestal raised on four boldly cast paw feet embellished with acanthus leaves. The pedestal panels are ornamented with foliate reliefs, while the upper borders feature continuous guilloche decoration. Above each base rises a classical urn draped with laurel garlands and centered by a finely modeled female mask. Dramatic flame finials crown the large urns, creating a strong and sculptural silhouette.
The curved connecting sections are further enriched with hanging laurel swags, ribbon motifs, rosettes, fluted supports, and smaller lidded urn finials. Black iron rear supports extend behind the gilt bronze fronts for placement inside the fireplace.
The generous scale, elaborate casting, and balanced neoclassical design make these antique chenets a striking addition to a living room, library, study, or formal reception space. They are in excellent condition commensurate with age and use, with minor surface wear and gentle variation to the gilt finish consistent with their age.
Dimensions: 16” W x 8.5” D x 17.5” H each See less