Vintage Gold Plated Neoclassical Floral Basket Candleholders - Ormolu Style - Set of Four Based on Antique French Furniture Mounts circa 1787

There is nothing new except what has been forgotten. Marie Antoinette

{HISTORY}

Made for the Metropolitan Museum of Art gift shop, the design of these four petite candleholders is based on antique furniture mounts from a French secretary in the Museum's collection. The secretary dates to 1787 and is believed to have once possibly belonged to Marie Antoinette during her time at Versailles.

In the Neoclassical Ormolu style, these gold-plated candleholders represent wicker floral baskets overflowing with fruit and blossoms. A popular theme of 18th-century design the real-life inspiration for these pieces can be seen in the photos of the actual secretary included here. 

Nestled in its original MOMA retail box, in addition to the four candleholders, this set also comes with the original four wax candles and an information card explaining the province and inspiration for the holders as well as the secretary's design history.

Measuring 2" inches tall (without candles), each holder comes in two removable pieces. The fruit and flower garland detaches from the basket for easy cleaning. The base of each holder is lined with black velvet to prevent scratching of tabletop surfaces. 

When the candle is in use, the holder measure 6" inches in height, making them lovely pieces for scattering amongst a table centerpiece or for display at each place setting for an intimate affair. Stunning when paired with gold and white dishes, these candleholders set the stage for a bevy of elegant holiday celebrations whether you are styling a mealtime table, decorating a bar cart or lighting up a mantelpiece. 

Care instructions included.

Portrait of Marie Antniette by Joseph Hickel, 1773

Photographs of the French 1787 French Secretary courtesy of the Metropolitan Museum of Art 

 

{SPECIAL FEATURES}

• Matching set of four candle holders includes eight pieces total plus four candles
• Nestled in original Metropolitan Museum of Art retail box

{CONDITION}

In beautiful condition, these candle holders are bright, shiny, very clean and free of candlewax. The candles are unused and mark-free. While the box is strong and secure, there is some fading to the Metropolitan Museum of Art font on the front of the box. Please see photos. 

{SIZE}

Each candle holder measures 2" inches (height without candle) x 2 "inches (in diameter) and weighs 6 oz.