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An exceptional and sculptural pair of early 19th-century French Empire urns, executed in fire-gilt bronze (ormolu) and mounted on solid rouge griotte marble pedestals, after the celebrated Warwick Vase model of antiquity.
These urns exemplify the highest Parisian bronzier tradition of the Napoleonic era, translating classical Roman grandeur into richly architectural Empire form.
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Description
Each urn is cast with a broad classical bowl encircled by finely modeled relief heads, with high looping handles rising from the rim — a direct reference to the famed Warwick Vase. The urns rest on stepped rouge griotte marble socles, mounted with chased and fire-gilt bronze ornament, including laurel appliqués and six gilt bun feet per base.
The proportions are powerful yet refined, designed to read as sculptural objects rather than mere garniture, and perfectly scaled for a mantel, pier table, or console.
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Materials
• Fire-gilt bronze (ormolu), mercury gilded
• Solid rouge griotte marble (not veneer)
• Original internal iron armature construction
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Dimensions
• Height: approx. 11 inches each
• Width: approx. 7 inches each
Condition
Very good antique condition overall.
Bases show minor losses to small applied ormolu decorative mounts, consistent with age and use. No structural damage. Marble remains sound and stable. Gilding shows attractive, honest wear commensurate with age.
