Pair Belle Époque Style Winged Monkey Masquerade Tragedy & Comedy Chambersticks

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Belle Époque Style Winged Monkey Masquerade Chambersticks

This captivating pair of vintage 20th-century "Singerie" chambersticks captures the eccentric elegance of … Read more Belle Époque Style Winged Monkey Masquerade Chambersticks

This captivating pair of vintage 20th-century "Singerie" chambersticks captures the eccentric elegance of the French Belle Époque style, offering a surreal touch to any interior. Having been professionally polished and restored, the pair beautifully showcases its intricate detailing and striking bi-metallic composition.

The main figures are rendered in a dark, polychromed lead or metal alloy, which creates a rich, textural contrast against the gleaming, newly revitalized brass ornamentation. In a nod to historical European masquerade traditions, each monkey wears a distinct Commedia dell'arte theatrical mask over its face—one bearing the weeping expression of Tragedy, the other the smiling visage of Comedy.

Elaborate, openwork brass filigree butterfly wings are affixed to their backs, while spirals of polished brass ribbon wrap tightly around their limbs and long, curling tails. Each whimsical creature serves as a functional candleholder, meticulously balancing a wide brass saucer bobeche and a flared candle nozzle cup designed to hold a standard taper.

Dating to the late 20th century, these decorative objects perfectly bridge the gap between classic Hollywood Regency glamour and antique European novelty.

Measuring 6" high, 5.5" wide, and 3" deep, with a compact 2.5" diameter base, this meticulously refreshed pair is an exceptional conversation piece. They stand as a premier acquisition for collectors of fine decorative metalwork, unique animaliana, and theatrical design. See less