Antique French street-lamp by Charles GAUTIER

Antique French street-lamp by Charles GAUTIER: These extraordinary decorative cast iron street lamps date from the late 19th century, embossed with the maker’s mark CHARLES GAUTIER, BORDEAUX. Charles Gautier was a French sculptor specialised in works of art in bronze and other cast metals, so it is no surprise that he would have designed prestigious decorative street lighting too. There are 5 available, which can be sold individually but preferably as pairs. Previously lighting historic Bordeaux, it is very rare to procure such noble decorative cast iron street lamps. They will find their place for example flanking a historic gateway and drive, or an entrance porch.

These street lamps can be partially dismantled in three principal sections, thereby enabling easier shipping and re-assembly. Initially they were gas-lights, and Bordeaux was connected with gas mains in the late 19th century for street lighting. Their age and the prestige of that bygone age is reflected in the patina of the faded green paintwork. They are very evocative and it’s easy to imagine the 19th century street scenario of night-time passers-by, pedestrians and horse drawn carriages, dimly lit by these gas-lights

Dimensions approx:

• Overall height : 3.60 metres (12 ft 10 inches)
• Diameter at the base : 51 cm (20 inches)

On display at BCA’s new architectural and garden antiques display at Pont L’Evêque, in Normandy.

Old photo of Bordeaux around 1910

Vintage photo of Bordeaux, Allées de Tourny