PARIS.- In its Furniture and Decorative Objects sale, Artcurial will offer some 83 lots of furniture, sculpture and objects showcasing European decorative arts. Bringing together a variety of highly decorative items, collectors will be able to discover unique pieces full of history from different periods.

Of note in the sale will be two majestic Rococo chandeliers, in carved giltwood, made around 1750 (300 000 – 500 000 € / 350 000 – 570 000 $). These are remarkable for their lavish composition in rock crystal, a rare and highly sought after material, with a transparence that reflects and intensifies the light form the candles. This pair of Italian chandeliers is more Baroque in style than Parisian examples of the same period and are distinctive for the large number of sconces that increase in numbers in descending rows. On a palatial scale, the pair of chandeliers offered in the sale is similar to certain examples hanging in the Gallery des Salons of the Royal Palace of Genoa.

Another highlight is the rare carved giltwood mirror from the early 18th century (estimate : 40 000 – 60 000 € / 45 000 – 68 000 $). The example on offer is similar to Dutch mirrors from the first part of the 18th century, in the shape of its frame and the presence of an overhanging palm leaf at the top. However the rather exuberant sculptural style suggests it may have a German origin. It thus reflects the strong influence exerted by the different stylistic trends in Europe at that time and makes this piece one of the rarest and most precious models. Just two other examples of this quality have appeared at auction before.

The items of cabinet work also include some rare pieces, including a suite of salon furniture in mahogany from the Directoire period, bearing the stamp of Georges Jacob (estimation : 70 000 – 100 000 € / 80 000 – 114 000 $). This furniture dates from the pivotal period of 1790 – 1795, a time when Georges Jacob was developing an « Etruscan » style. This highly modern ensemble would have been made to order for a particular venue. A rare neoclassical era commode from the late 18th century, attributed to Giuseppe Maggiolini, will also come under the hammer (estimate : 8 000 – 12 000 € / 9 000 – 14 000 $). This piece with fruitwood inlay is decorated ancient profiles.

Enthusiasts will also come across unique pieces designed for individuals, such as the gilt Chamberlain key made for the Earl of Ramuteau (estimate : 30 000 – 50 000 € / 35 000 – 57 000 $), named Chamberlain by Napoleon 1st in 1809. Attributed to the goldsmith Martin-Guillaume Biennais, this piece has remained in The Earl of Rambuteau’s family through to the present owner.