A Pair of Fine Late 19th-Century Gilded Pelican Wall Sconces, c. 1880
£1,200.00
Description
A highly decorative and sculptural pair of late 19th-century wall appliques, finely carved in wood and finished in rich water-gilding. These sconces represent the sophisticated animalier and revivalist tastes of the late Victorian era, modeled as pelicans in repose—a traditional symbol of protection and devotion.
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A Pair of Fine Late 19th-Century Gilded Pelican Wall Sconces, c. 1880
A highly decorative and sculptural pair of late 19th-century wall appliques, finely carved in wood and finished in rich water-gilding. These sconces represent the sophisticated animalier and revivalist tastes of the late Victorian era, modeled as pelicans in repose—a traditional symbol of protection and devotion.
The sconces feature:
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The Pelican Motif: Each bird is captured in a graceful, static pose atop a spherical orb, with the neck forming a sinuous curve that supports a scrolling foliate candle arm.
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Victorian Craftsmanship: The carving in this period often displays a more uniform, architectural precision than earlier Georgian examples. The feathers and foliate nozzles are crisply defined, typical of the high-quality workshop production in late 19th-century France or Italy.
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Water-Gilded Finish: Retaining a luminous, authentic gilded surface. The light wear to the edges provides a pleasing "shabby chic" or country-house aesthetic, allowing the underlying red bole to warm the gold.
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Functional Art: These pieces serve as both lighting and wall sculpture, offering a unique zoomorphic silhouette that fits perfectly into the eclectic interiors favored in the late 1800s.
Condition Report
Overall in very good condition, consistent with age and use. The carved wood structure remains sound, with the original gilded surface displaying an attractive, gently worn patina throughout. One pelican has a small historic chip to the tip of the right wing, which has been professionally colour-matched and gilt to blend seamlessly with the surrounding surface and is not visually intrusive. Minor surface wear and small losses in keeping with early 19th century gilded objects.
Measurement
Height: 27 cm / 10.6 inches
Width: 23 cm / 9.1 inches
Depth: 15 cm / 5.9 inches
Weight: 0.4 k.g / 0.9 lbs
Cleaning, Polishing & Restoration
All our collections have been through our workshop and where possible, we always try to maintain the original finish preserving the patina and colour, some items are sympathetically restored and this is done by our own skilled craftsmen using only traditional methods
We complete a full assessment, re-wire and PAT inspection on all lighting. The full assessment can include general upkeep and updating – Fitting new lamp holders, deep cleaning, minor repairs and replacement of fragile metal pins are all part of our service. Rewiring includes a standard rewire to conform with UK electrical regulations to an adaptation or conversion
