Art Deco Bronze Cobra Candlesticks

Art Deco Bronze Cobra Candlesticks

This striking pair of Art Deco bronze cobra candlesticks transforms one of the period’s most powerful exotic motifs into a dramatic source of domestic light. Each cobra rises from a compact base with its hood fully spread, its head turned upward to form the candle cup. The sculptural bodies are richly modeled and carefully chiselled, with individually defined scales and taut musculature that give the serpents an impressive sense of movement.

Standing 19 cm tall, the candlesticks have a compact yet commanding presence. Moreover, their deep, warm bronze patina emphasizes the intricate reptilian texture and gives the pair an appropriately dramatic character.

Sculpted Cobra Form

The craftsmanship is most evident in the treatment of the serpents. Each scale is individually articulated, while the coiled bodies are modeled with close attention to anatomical structure. As a result, the cobras appear both highly stylized and remarkably lifelike.

The raised hoods and upturned heads create the strongest visual gesture. At the same time, the candle cups are integrated naturally into the design, turning the cobra itself into the functional support for the flame.

Art Deco Exoticism

The cobra was an especially potent motif within the exotic vocabulary of Art Deco. Following the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb in 1922, Egyptian-inspired imagery became increasingly influential across European fashion, architecture, jewelry, and decorative arts.

The royal uraeus serpent was particularly well suited to the period’s fascination with ancient Egypt. In addition, the cobra connected with wider Orientalist imagery, giving Art Deco designers a rich source of references extending from North Africa to South and Southeast Asia.

Dramatic Bronze Patina

The bronze has a rich, deep, and warm dark patina. This finish works particularly well with the subject, emphasizing the shadows between the scales and bringing greater definition to the sculpted forms.

Furthermore, the contrast between the smooth highlights and darker recessed areas gives the candlesticks considerable depth. The surface therefore becomes an important part of the overall sculptural effect.

Striking Matched Pair

Offered as a pair, these Art Deco bronze cobra candlesticks have an impact that a single example could not achieve. Positioned opposite one another on a mantel, chimney piece, console, or sideboard, the two serpents create a strong sense of bilateral symmetry.

Their compact scale also makes them versatile. They can enhance a formal interior while remaining suitable for a desk, dressing table, or smaller display surface. Consequently, they combine decorative impact with an unusually manageable size.

Details

• Type: Pair of candlesticks
• Subject: Cobra serpents
• Period: Art Deco
• Style: Art Deco / Egyptian Revival
• Material: Bronze
• Finish: Dark, warm bronze patina
• Design: Sculpted and chiselled cobra forms
• Decoration: Detailed scales and modeled musculature
• Candle Holders: Integrated into the raised cobra heads
• Configuration: Matched pair
• Character: Sculptural and exotic
• Use: Candlesticks and decorative objects

Dimensions

• Height: 19 cm (7.5 in)
• Width: 17 cm (6.7 in)
• Length / Depth: 17 cm (6.7 in)