Andrew Lovatt Antiques

Description

A Fine 19th Century French Gilt Bronze Fire Screen Bouhon Frères

A fine and extremmelly rare Gilt Bronze Fire Screen having shaped and asymmetrical frame is richly adorned with cherub mounts looking forward to the top, scrolling acanthus foliage, rocaille cartouches, and finely modeled floral ornament. The crest is surmounted with a cast foliate flourish, while the lower apron echoes this movement with a central floral scroll casting and the frame is raised on elegant swept splayed feet.

This highly decorative late 19th century French fire screen attributed to the renowned Parisian makers Bouhon Frères, specialists in luxury fireplace furnishings. Executed in finely cast and chased gilt bronze (ormolu), the piece is designed in the exuberant Louis XV Rococo taste, reflecting the revival styles popular in the period.

Bouhon Frères were celebrated for their fireplace accessories and exhibited internationally, receiving accolades including a gold medal at the Paris Exposition Universelle of 1900 . Their works are now increasingly sought after for their craftsmanship and decorative appeal.

Origin: France
Date: Late 19th century (circa 1880–1900)
Material: Gilt bronze (ormolu)

A refined and rare example of French decorative arts, ideal for both functional use and as a striking fireside statement piece.

Maison Bouhon Frères.
Previsouly named maison Clavier, then Bouhon et Cie until 1898, the maison Bouhon Frères is specialized in mantels and their accessories in bronze and wrough iron.
The brothers Thomas and Joseph Bouhon have a famous shop in the Marais district in Paris, and they are called many times to be part of the jury in the exhibitions. According to Victor Champier, "The firedogs, andirons etc. have always give the bronze industry motifs that give it its best success .At this time, it's the maison Bouhon which keeps with most constancy and success our old French reputation in this specialty".
Bouhon is congratulated during the International Exhibition of 1900 by the international jury for its screens and firedogs "entirely new". It receives the gold medal, as it already received in 1897 in the Bruxelles International Exhibition.

Dimensions:W: 82cm (32.3")H: 73cm (28.7")D: 18cm (7.1")
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