Italian, Central Italy
Two Torcheres (Torciere), 1600-1649
Painted and gilded poplar, 255.5 x 79 cm (100 9/16 x 31 1/8 in.)
These highly ornate Italian torcheres are lavishly decoration and are monumental in size, standing approximately 8 feet tall. They are made of painted and gilded poplar. Their rich carving includes scrollwork, leaves and knobs. Along with areas that are gilded, there are sections that are painted red and green. The top receptacle for a candle is bordered with a beaded design. Each torchere has three highly carved feet.
Third Floor Stairhall And Stairway
Commentary
These monumental torcheres, lavishly carved and richly painted and gilded, are spectacular examples of Italian Baroque design. The exuberance
of the carved foliage is structured by smoothly turned surfaces and forms directly derived from classical orders. Their monumental scale and rich decoration suggest that they were made for an opulent palazzo or possibly a large church, although the decoration includes no religious symbols.
of the carved foliage is structured by smoothly turned surfaces and forms directly derived from classical orders. Their monumental scale and rich decoration suggest that they were made for an opulent palazzo or possibly a large church, although the decoration includes no religious symbols.