Rare Pair of French Antique Bronze Fireplace Chenets “Vulcan and Venus"

PAIR OF GILT BRONZE FIREPLACE CHENETS DEPICTING VENUS AND VULCAN
Probably France, circa 4th quarter of 19th century

14 3/8" H x 6 1/2" D x 14 3/4" W

Gilt bronze, cold-stamped with numbers to the underside

A pair of Louis XV style fireplace chenets in gilt bronze, each modeled with a seated mythological figure above a rocaille base of rockwork, shell forms, acanthus leaves, and scrolling ornament. The figures represent Venus, goddess of love, and Vulcan, her husband, god of fire, metalwork and the forge.

The subjects are well suited to a hearth setting. Vulcan is shown as the presiding deity of fire and craftsmanship, seated with his bellow in one hand while the other protects his face from the intense heat of the fires within. Venus is shown as his counterpart opposing him in loose symmetry, her figure softened by drapery and her hair gathered above the face while both hands are raised to be warmed by the hearth. Both figures are set among rocky formations, recalling the mythological association of Vulcan’s forge with Mount Etna.

The casting is finely chased, with careful attention to the figures, drapery, and ornamental bases. Very fine.

Condition: Old worn gilding throughout with discolorations and staining, reddish oxide undertones coming through where gilding has worn thin. Ready to place.