THOMIRE, PIERRE-PHILIPPE (1751-1843) A Pair of Candelabras with Figures of Fame signed and inscribed 'Paris' Gilt bronze, cast, height 98 cm. Six-light candelabras with winged figures of Fame in long tunics, standing on spheres. Each Fame holds a six-light candelabra in one hand and a palm branch in the other. The base is cylindrical, with on-laid details in the form of torches, which join hanging flower garlands, and stylised medallions framed by small wreaths. A pair of identical candelabras with patinated dark bronze figures is held in the collection of the Hermitage Museum. Other examples of candelabras of this type are found in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Finance in Paris. (E. Dumontier, Les Bronzes du Mobilier national. Bronzes d' éclairage et de chauffage. Paris, s.d., Pl. 31). The superb soft moulding of the figures, the natural poses, the expressive modelling of the faces and folds of the drapery, and the careful working of the hands and feet leave no doubt that this is the work of Pierre-Philippe Thomire, the most prominent French bronzier of the First Empire. Pierre-Philippe Thomire, a sculptor, bronzier and fondeur-cise- leur who trained with A. Goudon and P. Gouthière, worked at the Sèvres porcelain factory. He founded his own workshop in 1776 and retired in 1823, transferring control of the firm to his sons-in-law, Beauvisage and Carbonel. The most famous European courts and aristocratic families were among Thomire's clients. These candelabras are of highest artistic value and the superb execution of the bronze, evident in the impeccable casting, finely detailed engraving and refined tone of the gilding. Bronzes of such size and quality were made for the most luxurious palace interiors. We are grateful to Mrs. A. G. Geyko, the Custodian of Decorative Bronzes at the State Hermitage Museum, for providing additional catalogue information.