Pierre-Philippe Thomire Lot n° 23

LARGE EMPIRE CENTERPIECE WITH BACCHUS & CERES. Thomire, Pierre-Philippe. 1751 - 1843 Paris. Date: Around 1820. Technique: Firegilt bronze. Description: The top of the plinth circumferentially decorated with palmettes and the high cylindrical base circumferentially decorated with a relief of small cupids carrying large flower festoons between them, each with a large palmette motif. On the plinth the large figurines of Bacchus and Ceres in dancing poses, carrying a large candelabrum with grapes above their heads. On top a ring with eight curved candelabrum arms in the shape of cornucopias, the spouts each with leaf relief. Measurement: Height 66cm, ø 43cm. Mark: On pedestal inscr. "THOMIRE A PARIS". Stick held by Ceres is missing. Provenance: Private collection Berlin. Literature: Hans Ottomeyer a. Peter Pröschel. Vergoldete Bronzen, vol.1. munich 1986. For this model see p.387, fig.5.16.13. In the course of the 19th century, a new way of dining was established in the elegant households of Europe. Whereas previously the table had been decorated with elaborately decorated show dishes, which were often quite impractical for consumption, the food began to be served in several courses on plates. In order to fill the space this change of practice created in the middle of the table, new types of table decoration were developed. The centrepiece presented here was probably part of one of those fire-gilded sourtouts. On a substructure with mirror panels, framed by gallery borders, stood baskets and etagères for flowers, fruit and confectionery, as well as candelabras whose candlelight was reflected by the mirrors. These ensembles remained in place in the centre of the table throughout the dinner, and the guests at the magnificently decorated table were able to enjoy them as a feast for the eyes. Explanations to the Catalogue Voraussichtliche Versandkosten für dieses Lot: Absprache nach der Auktion. Estimated shipping costs for this lot: Arrangement after the auction.