Pair of 19th Century French Ormolu Dolphin Chenets

These superb antique chenets, or firedogs, were crafted in France in the 19th century and are made from fantastic and radiant gilt-bronze. The two matching pieces feature an elaborate ornate base, which is mounted by large mythical sea-creatures, or dolphins, which are placed heads down with their tails holding aloft a sphere, which is in turn richly decorated with extensive scrolling decorations and wreaths. Open-shells furnish the top of each work, and facing towards each other, they make a fantastic addition to a home fireplace, or indeed, to any suitable interior.