Candelabra

The use of ancient Egyptian motifs in these candelabra is an example of the Napoleon I Revival style popular during the third quarter of the nineteenth century. Egyptian motifs had often been incorporated into decorative art objects during the reign of Napoleon I (1804–15) as an homage to his military victories in Egypt. These candelabra were made during the reign of Napoleon III, emperor of France (1852–70) and nephew of Napoleon I. Their Egyptian motifs consciously evoke the accomplishments and arts of the time of his uncle to give credence to his own reign and to link it with the glory of France's proud past.