Pair of Louis XVI style gilt bronze sconces with 4 arms
condition of use and oxidation E14 flame bulbs

144 X 32 X 20.5 cm
Pierre Gouthière (1732-1813), the son of a saddler, became the most famous Parisian bronze and gilder of the late 1700s, receiving commissions from some of the greatest connoisseurs of his time. Like many successful apprentices, he married the widow of his first employer and took over his establishment. Success was rapid, and in November 1767, he received the title of “Gilder to the King” from Louis XV. Gouthière also supplied works to the Comte d’Artois, the Marquis de Marigny, and the merchant Dominique Daguerre, among others. Gouthière was a master of chasing and invented a new type of gilding that left a matte finish. He combined polished and matte finishes to create varied effects on the surfaces of his bronzes. He made many types of objects, including furniture mounts, fireplace and carriage ornaments, and porcelain or marble vase mounts.