What is a Torchere? the name come from the French for torch/light and is basically a tall, floor standing candelabra usually with several lights. They were first introduced in France towards the end of the 17th century and were usually made from gilded and sometimes ebonised wood.
Most often they took the form of cherubs, godesses, or exotic figures in arabic, african, indian or chinese costumes – or occasionally mythical beasts, all standing on ornate plinths holding lights aloft.
This pair of torchere figures depict two ebonised cherubs with gilded corinthian column base and 3 arm electric light fitting (with screw in candle bulbs) in an arrangement of gilded leaves.
This pair of Torchere figures has been designed and made exclusively by me, I create the the figure on the plinth, then add the electric lights and decorations, before hand painting and gilding. These are exclusive to me – and so can also be made to order in any colour and style.
I also make them in pastel colours to replicate those in porcelain created by the 18th century Meissen porcelain factory who made such figures and chandeliers for the palaces of king Ludwig ll of Bavaria.
