The Estate of John F. Fleming, Christie's New York, June 17, 1989, lot 138;
Christie's New York, June 2, 2015, lot 117

In excellent condition overall, with minor rubbing and losses to the gilding consistent with age. The tops bearing a central round well approx. 5 cm in diameter which originally held some sort of fixture, now missing. Excellent quality and imposing, sturdy pieces ready to use.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

This impressive pair of gilt bronze torchères is based on Antique precedents, which were researched and illustrated in English publications such as Henry Moses, Vases, Altars, Paterae, Tripods, Candelabra, Sarcophagi, London, 1814. The present example is not an identical copy from an ancient source but does share similarities with plates 86 and 90 in Moses's sourcebook. It appears that this was a fairly successful model since there is an identical torchère, but with an oil lamp added to the top and inset with an agate oval, is in the collection of the Duke and Ducchess of Devonshire. Another pair, that was not gilded, was sold Christie's London, June 9, 2005, lot 210. That pair was attributed to William Collins as it features his 'Grecian Metal' finish which is thought to be a special tinted lacquer applied to the bronze. The present pair is the same model as the ungilded example, which points to William Collins being the source for this model of torchère. Collins worked in the Strand from 1808-1852 with his most important patron being the 3rd Duke of Northumberland to whom he supplied all the lighting and metalwork for Northumberland House. Collins produced five torchères similar in appearance to the present for Northumberland that are illustrated Christopher Sykes, Private Palaces, New York, 1986, p. 239.