Attributed to Claude Galle (French, 1759-1815), Pair of Ormolu and Patinated Bronze Ewers

Early 19th century, featuring a gilt bronze everted spout with chased gryphon surmount, elongated ovoid body in warm brown patina mounted with ormolu hippocamp and mask relief frieze with finely chased foliate basin, supported atop a round ormolu pedestal base with square red griotte marble plinth.

15 x 4 3/8 x 2 3/4 in.

For a similar example, see Christie's The Collector Online Auction 21054, 7 Jan-10 Feb 2022, Lot 195.

The great bronzier, Claude Galle, had humble beginnings as the son of a poultry farmer. Born at Villepreux near Versailles, Claude served an apprenticeship in Paris under the fondeur Pierre Foy. He would earn Pierre's daughter's hand in marriage in 1784, and by 1786 became maitre-fondeur. He became one of France's most sought after bronziers, creating masterful figural urns, ewers, clock cases, candelabra, chandeliers, and many other sculptural forms. He employed around 400 people at the height of his career, earning important commissions from the Garde-Meuble de la Couronne as well as imperial leaders such as Napoleon Bonaparte.

Areas of rubbing to the gilt and patina; handles with some looseness; marble with some edge chipping, one marble base with hairline along the underside.