Rare Pair of 18th-Century Italian Mirror-Backed Candle Sconces - 26¾"x 16½"

A rare pair of 18th-century Italian mirror-backed candle sconces, made from carved wood and molded papier-mâché with painted and silvered decoration. Their elongated rocaille frames are richly modeled with scrolling foliage and asymmetrical curves, each retaining two original wrought-iron candle arms with leafy details and a beautifully aged verdigris patina. The heavily foxed mirror plates are wonderfully atmospheric, adding depth and softness to the reflections. Traces of earlier electrification remain, with discreet holes beneath the arms and through the candle cups, meaning the pair could be rewired relatively easily if desired. Both retain their original wall hooks.

Paper mache, or cartapesta, had a long tradition in Italy, where its lightness and malleability made it ideal for elaborate decorative work. Here, the molded ornament is applied over a wooden backing or frame, then finished with gesso, paint, and silvering. The pair shows expected age-related wear, including scattered cracks, small losses, surface abrasions, and heavy foxing to the mirror plates, all of which add to the depth and character of the surfaces.

Used with candles, rewired for electricity, or simply left unelectrified, they would bring a romantic, atmospheric quality to a room, with just enough theatricality to make the setting feel layered, evocative, and deeply individual.