The collection of lighting shows the strong and enduring influence of the Louis XV and Louis XVI styles, which experienced a revival during the middle of the 19^th century and all the way through to the early 20^th century Belle Epoque.

The ornate styles, using motifs such as rocaille, putti, swags, scrolls and flowers, emanate aristocratic opulence. The rising middle classes of the later 19^th century were keen to emulate this aesthetic, and to put their own twist on the styles. The industrial revolution, and particularly mechanical developments in the process of bronze casting, ensured that the courtly fashions of the past were accessible to this new elite.  

The striking chandeliers included in our auction of European Furniture, Ceramics and Works of Art, in particular showcase the influence of Rococo greats. The elegant branches of Lot 45, for example, recall the works of Pierre Gouthiere, and the dynamic, swirling foliage of Lot 102 harks back to the ormolu masterpieces of Juste-Aurele Meissonnier and Jacques Caffieri. 

In addition to this opulent selection of lighting in bronze, the collection also includes works by the iconic British lighting manufacturers F. & C. Osler, such as Lot 148, whose fine ‘brilliant cut glass’ was popular with royalty across the British Empire, and who embraced the modern technologies of the Victorian age with their forward-thinking designs.

AUCTION DATE & LOCATION
Wednesday 19 February | 10.30am
Donnington Priory, Newbury, Berkshire RG14 2JE

VIEWING:
Sunday 16 February: 10am-2pm
Monday 17 February: 10am-5pm
Tuesday 18 February: 10am-5pm
Day of sale: from 8.30am

Browse the catalogue