Rare and Palatial Pair of Gilt Bronze and Malachite Seven Light Torcheres

The body of baluster form above a gilt bronze-mounted circular and square base, the neck mounted with flowers and foliage leading up to seven tiered bronze acanthus arms.

Malachite is a semi-precious stone and also a valuable copper ore, hydrous copper carbonate. It is a beautiful green earth stone with irregular black banding. It is easily recognized by its color, green streak, and silky or velvety luster. It was used to make beautiful jewelry and to adorn only the finest pieces of furniture. In the 18th-19th century malachite was popular with Russian Czars and Nobility. They often used it to decorate their palaces and own personal furnishings. The Hermitage Museum has one of the biggest and best displays of Malachite pieces in the world.