Important Empire period centrepiece attributed to Thomire

Important Empire period centrepiece in finely chased bronze with mercury gilding, attributed to Pierre-Philippe Thomire (1751–1843). The composition features three draped caryatids in the antique manner, in patinated bronze, supporting on richly modelled cushions finely chased turtles, which directly uphold the openwork basket decorated with palmettes and scrolling foliage, entirely gilded. This elaborate iconographic arrangement, combining symbolism and function, reflects a refined vocabulary characteristic of the most ambitious Empire creations.

The architecturally structured base with chamfered sides is adorned with trophies and neoclassical attributes and rests on lion paw feet and claws, a motif of power and majesty that reinforces the monumental character of the piece. The exceptional quality of the chasing, the richness of the mercury gilding, and the balance of the composition associate this model with the finest productions of the Thomire workshop, official supplier to the imperial palaces.

Parisian work from the Empire period, circa 1805–1810. Height: 53 cm.
Museum quality, very well preserved condition.

THOMIRE: One of the most remarkable bronziers of his generation, he is renowned for his production of gilt bronze furnishings under the Ancien Régime. Under the Empire, he elevated this craft to its highest level of quality, while in the early years of the 19th century establishing an industrial enterprise with a European reach. He retired in 1823.