Pair of Mid-20th Century French Louis XVI Painted Two-Light Lyre Wall Sconces

$1,400

About

This charming pair of vintage wall sconces was crafted in France circa 1970 in the Louis XVI style. Beautifully carved and hand painted, each two-light fixture features a graceful musical lyre surrounded by delicate floral garlands, scrolling foliage, and classical ornamentation, reflecting the refined Neoclassical design associated with 18th-century French decorative arts.

The central lyre features a tall, fluted gilt column crowned with a carved shell crest, framed by gracefully curved arms that form the instrument’s distinctive silhouette. Cascading floral garlands, carved leaves, and small blossoms embellish both sides, while a sculpted cartouche anchors the lower section. Two elegantly scrolling candle arms extend outward from the base, each supporting a decorative candle cup and faux candle sleeve.

The sconces retain a beautiful distressed painted finish in soft shades of cream, pale green, muted yellow, and subtle rose, enhanced with gilt accents that highlight the intricate carving. Gentle variations in the painted surfaces and the aged patina lend the fixtures the charm of traditional French provincial decoration.

The lyre was a favored ornamental motif during the reign of Louis XVI, symbolizing music, harmony, and classical refinement. Its symmetrical form became particularly popular in French furniture, lighting, and architectural decoration, making these sconces wonderful examples of the enduring appeal of Neoclassical design.

Each fixture has been newly wired to US standard and accommodates two lights, for a total of four lights across the pair. The vintage sconces are in excellent condition commensurate with age and use, retaining their attractive distressed finish and delicate pastel coloring.

Perfect for flanking a mirror, doorway, or painting, these decorative wall lights would make an inviting addition to a powder room, hallway, bedroom, or entryway.

Dimensions: 13.75″W x 5″D x 14″H each

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