Exceptional pair of table lamps in perfect and iconic Empire style; the base and the entire stem are burnished bronze, while the decorations and the massive capital are excellent brass castings; above the capital are placed two faux candles containing the lamp holder. Two distinctive brass decorations have been applied to the cylindrical part of the base of each lamp: one classically depicts the head of a Greek goddess with the characteristic gathered hair, while the other lamp depicts the head of the goddess Athena or Pallas with the characteristic crested Corinthian helmet shifted back on the nape of the neck; both effigies are surrounded by a crown of laurel leaves. Athena was the Greek goddess of wisdom, the arts, and strategy in battle. In the two lamps very distinctive are the capitals supporting the mock candles: they are excellent brass reproductions of the classical Corinthian capital. The Corinthian order is one of the architectural orders of Greco-Roman architecture dating back to the 5th century BC. The adjective Corinthian comes from the city of Corinth, one of the most important and powerful poleìs of the Peloponnese, as it was from this city that the order was born and developed. the Corinthian Order turns out to be the most refined and streamlined of the Greek architectural orders. The two lamps were made by hand between 1970 and 1973 in an artisan "workshop" in Florence, Italy. Throughout the 20th century, Florence maintained its reputation as a center of craft production, including metalworking. Florence's artisan workshops have long been known for their exquisite production of bronze and brass objects, often drawing inspiration from historic styles such as the Empire style. The Empire style, which originated in France in the early 19th century under Napoleonic rule, was characterized by grandeur, symmetry, and classical motifs inspired by ancient Greek and Roman art. Rich materials such as bronze and brass were favored for decorative objects such as lamps, chandeliers, and furniture. In Florence, artisan workshops carried on this tradition, producing Empire-style lamps with meticulous attention to detail and craftsmanship. These lamps featured ornate designs, classical motifs, and a sense of opulence that defined the Empire aesthetic. Empire-style table lamps from this era often featured classical motifs such as laurel wreaths, acanthus leaves, and mythological effigies, reflecting the grandeur and symmetry typical of this style. These lamps were typically made of high-quality materials such as bronze, brass, or ormolu (gilded bronze) and were often embellished with intricate details and fine craftsmanship. Today, 20th-century Empire-style lamps and light fixtures are highly sought after by collectors and historical design enthusiasts. They are a tangible reminder of a bygone era of opulence, elegance, and artistic craftsmanship. The pair of lamps are in good condition. The electrical system is working but the wiring is European; voltage compatibility in other states should always be checked by an electrician before use. Measurements diameter cm.15, height cm.57.
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SILVER Seller in Prato, Italy
