104 - François LINKE (1855–1946)

François LINKE (1855–1946) A magnificent pair of chiseled and gilded bronze lamps depicting deities, designed as a matching set. They depict the crowned Pluto and Proserpina, both draped in fabric. The god holds a trident in his right hand, and the goddess is likely holding a torch. They are seated on a large rocaille volute adorned with acanthus leaves and solid or openwork ovals. This base rests on two volutes on one side and an architectural triangular foot on the other. Signed: Linke on the base Paris. Late 19th century H_50 cm W_48 cm D_28 cm (Wear on the gilding). Related work: - This pair of candlesticks was modeled after the example delivered by Lelièvre around 1750 for Louis XV’s private apartments at Versailles and now held in the collections of the Mobilier National (inv. OA5147). - Bronzes in the Louvre’s Furniture Collection. Daniel Alcouffe, Anne Dion Tenenbaum, and Gérard Mabille. Faton, 2004. Page 67 - A similar pair of candelabra featuring deities—Neptune and Amphitrite—is published in the book *Christopher Payne, François Linke, 1855–1946: The Belle Époque of French Furniture* (1999), page 492. François Linke. The Czech-born cabinetmaker François Linke (1855–1946) made a name for himself at the 1900 Exposition with his extremely luxurious furniture. His shop, opened in 1881, welcomed several monarchs and dignitaries from around the world, so much so that in the early 20th century, King Fouad I of Egypt placed an order with him for his Palace in Alexandria—an order rivaled only by those commissioned by Louis XIV for the Palace of Versailles. As early as 1885, he worked with the sculptor Léon Messagé to revitalize the Louis XV and Regency styles. Léon Messagé designed numerous pieces featuring espagnolette handles, of which we have a fine example here. Around 1900, he also used the motif of a wheat ear resting on a shell, as seen on the “Shell” chest of drawers sent to the 1900 Exposition. Expert: Stéphane PEPE Expert: Stephane PEPE