Pair of solid silver candlesticks or torches, straight socket on a slightly fluted baluster-shaped shaft, resting on a large base with moldings and contoured ogee, decorated with large stylized shells on the foot and smaller ones on the knot of the shaft, hallmarks Fermiers Généraux de Paris 1780, silversmith Marc-Antoine Leroy*, Louis XVI period 18th century.
These candlesticks are in very good condition and are of exceptional quality of carving. This shell decoration is not common. They are hallmarked under the foot, in the socket and in the bobeche. Hallmark of Paris (crowned A), letter R for 1780, MA and hallmark of recency.
* Marc-Antoine Leroy : MAL hallmark with rearing animal, 2 remedy grains, lily, crown. Born in 1738, master in 1769, cited in 1793. Paris.
Please note: tiny scratches and slight wear from time, see photos.