Floor Candelabra by Carrier-Belleuse from Rochelle Sepenuk Estate

Our client's wonderful figural candelabra in patinated and gilt bronze by Albert-Ernest Carrier-Belleuse (1824-1887) measures 65 in (165.1 cm) tall and comes with a marble pedestal measuring 29.5 in (75 cm) tall.  Designed for use as a floor lamp with candleholders drilled to allow wiring to feed each socket, plus hole at base and circular on/off switch on the top of the base in rear.  Signed A CARRIER.

Provenance:  Property from the Estate of Rochelle Sepenuk, Sotheby's, New York, October 21, 2008, lot 236, $31,250.

In good condition, with scratches and rubbing wear, particularly noticeable on the central stem underneath the flame form finial.  With modern sockets and candle covers, but in need of new wiring which we may install prior to shipment.

Fashioned in the Neo-Grecian style, the female holds a torchere with ten lights.  This work is based on the artist's plaster studies illustrated on page 197 of June Ellen Hargrove's book, The Life and Work of Albert Carrier-Belleuse, Garland Publishing, New York, 1977.  The author wrote: "Carrier-Belleuse valued anatomical clarity, and unlike many of his contemporaries, he rarely allowed the profusion of drapery to obscure the form of the figure itself. Warmth radiates from his figures..."

Ms. Sepenuk's collection of European sculpture and decorative art was known around the world.  The 2008 auction at Sotheby's in New York total over $5.6 million.