Rare pair of monumental gilt-wood torchère stands, Baltic work, early 18th

An exceptional pair of carved and gilded wood torchère stands dating from the early 18th century.
Designed as a matching pair, they feature an architectural yet highly dynamic composition, fully animated by rich, deep-relief carving depicting foliage, scrolls, shells, and vegetal motifs.
The upper section consists of a wide platform, designed to support a torchère, girandole, or other light fixture, accented by an elegant molded rim. Beneath the platform, the structure extends into a substantial, richly carved capital composed of leafy volutes, acanthus leaves, and scrolling elements, interspersed with finely carved medallions and shells.
The exceptionally slender shaft is formed by several uprights terminating in scrolls; the central section of the composition is organized around an oval, medallion-like form, framed by broad, leafy scrolls and shells.

The central shaft is surrounded by large scrolled brackets, acanthus leaves, and floral motifs before expanding into a substantial tripod base defined by sweeping curves and counter-curves.
The three flared legs terminate in bold, leafy scrolls with dramatically upturned ends. At the center, an abundant arrangement of flowers, foliage, and rocaille elements unites the various components of the base.

The sculpture, deliberately dynamic in style, alternates vertical lines with scrolls, lending these torchères a remarkable sense of lightness despite their monumental scale. The richness of the ornamentation is particularly evident in the intricate foliage and scrolling motifs, the small rosettes and floral patterns, and the detailed rendering of the shells and scrolls.


These torchères were designed for prestigious interiors, serving both decorative and practical functions. Placed on either side of a doorway, staircase, or fireplace, or within a grand reception hall, they held torches or girandoles to supplement the room's lighting while standing as striking decorative features in their own right. Their exceptional height ensured they were visible from a distance, allowing them to play a key role in the architectural staging of the interior.
Boasting a remarkable decorative presence thanks to their height and exuberant carving, these two monumental torchères—standing 152 cm tall—exemplify the exceptional craftsmanship of Northern European sculptors in the early 18th century.


A magnificent example of early 18th-century Baltic craftsmanship, executed in richly carved and gilded wood.

A rare, monumental pair of exceptional decorative quality.

Dimensions: H 152 cm