• Width:
  58 Inches
• Height:
  18 1/4 Inches

A pair of sphinx chenets guards this classical French ormolu fireplace guard. Cast from a model by renowned 19th-century sculptor Frédérick Eugène Piat, the sphinxes rest upon a stepped fender surmounted by a floral-festooned urn. In a career spanning close to 50 years, Piat formed a considerable body of work, creating designs and models for a vast array of clocks, appliques, lampes, candelabras and torchères. Such designs were executed by many of the most reputable firms of Parisian bronziers, among them Christofle, Colin, Lemerle-Charpentier, Motteau and Maison Millet. As an artiste collaborateur with these firms, many of Piat's creations were shown on their respective stands at the major international exhibitions of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Signed "Piat"
Circa 1880

58" wide x 18 ¼" high

Chenets, or andirons, were a staple of any well-appointed home, serving as both decorative and useful objects. They were placed in front of a fireplace to protect priceless rugs and flooring from rolling logs. Only the grandest homes would have had chenets as beautifully designed as these. Intricately detailed and in excellent condition, these elegant chenets are a truly rare find.