Pair of Early Louis XV Chinoiserie Gilt Bronze Ormolu Chenets / Andirons, Circa 1745 [Sp]

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A striking and highly decorative pair of original early Louis XV gilt-bronze ormolu chenets, or fire dogs, dating to circa … Read more A striking and highly decorative pair of original early Louis XV gilt-bronze ormolu chenets, or fire dogs, dating to circa 1745 and modeled in the fashionable chinoiserie taste of mid-18th-century France.

Each chenet features a finely modeled Chinese figure seated within an elaborate Rococo composition. The female figure is depicted gently patting a small dog, while her male companion holds a bird. Their animated poses, exoticized costume, scrolling forms, and asymmetrical ornament reflect the European fascination with Chinese-inspired decoration that flourished during the reign of Louis XV.

The figures and decorative mounts are cast in bronze with remnants of their original gilded surface. Much of the gilding has worn away over nearly three centuries, although the bronze retains a warm golden coloration with traces of gilding still visible throughout. The attached iron andiron arms exhibit substantial oxidation and surface rust consistent with their age and historic use.

An especially appealing pair for a collector of 18th-century French decorative arts, ormolu, Rococo furnishings, or historic fireplace furniture. Their substantial scale also makes them impressive sculptural objects when displayed outside of a working fireplace.

Related 18th-century French chinoiserie chenets, including examples attributed to comparable makers and workshops, have appeared on the market at considerably higher price points depending upon attribution, condition, provenance, and quality.

Circa: 1745
Origin: France
Period: Early Louis XV
Style: Rococo / Chinoiserie
Materials: Gilt bronze (ormolu) and iron

Dimensions: approximately 13” H x 23” L See less