Juste-Aurèle Meissonnier: Sculptor, Painter,
Architect, Designer, and Royal Goldsmith
Dates: 1695-1750
Born: Turin, Savoy
Died: Paris, France
Sculptor, painter, architect, designer, and royal goldsmith who is credited with perfecting the Rococo style. Meissonnier is considered one of the leading designers of the influential Rococo style in the decorative arts. He migrated to Paris early in his career, receiving a warrant as master goldsmith from King Louis XV in 1724 and was appointed designer for the king’s bedchamber and cabinet in 1726.
With a powerful and fertile imagination, as a goldsmith, Meissonnier was renowned for the boldness of his designs. He produced works of astonishing variety. His fantastic grottoes and swirling, animated, asymmetrical metalwork designs combined contrasting and original motifs—designs that solidify the creative genius of Meissonnier.
Elegant and dynamic, the sculptural candelabra offered here exhibits the distinctive details that define the rocaille design of Meissonnier. There is movement as seen in the fluidity masterfully achieved in the extraordinary asymmetrical branches above a spiraling stem intertwined with four dolphins. Its sinuous form in elegant freedom yet amplified its distinctive decor statement with an organic unity. The exuberantly asymmetrical design captures the quintessence rocaille style. The quality of the work is very fine. Topped by flower-shaped sockets with its bobeches. Comprised of fifteen detachable parts.
