OLD Maxime

OLD Maxime

Maxime OLD (1910–1991)

Two Exceptional Pairs of Bronze and Brass Sconces, circa 1946

France, circa 1946.

An exceptional and extraordinarily rare set of four wall sconces, forming two matching pairs, by French designer Maxime Old (1910–1991), executed in polished bronze and brass circa 1946.

These Maxime OLD sconces beautifully demonstrate Maxime Old’s sophisticated approach to materials, proportion and light. The combination of polished brass with differently patinated bronze surfaces creates subtle variations in tone throughout the composition. When the sconces are illuminated at night, these differences become particularly striking: the light reveals the various colors, reflections and depths of the bronze patinas, giving the fixtures a remarkably warm and architectural presence.

Each sconce is fitted with a brand-new custom ivory pongee silk lampshade, carefully selected to complement the elegance of the original metalwork. The four sconces have been rewired for use in the United States.

While finding one original pair of this Maxime Old model is already extremely rare, encountering two matching pairs together is exceptional and extraordinarily difficult on the market. Their importance is further enhanced by their remarkable provenance: these Maxime OLD sconces originally furnished the Richmond Opera Hotel in Paris, France.

Historical photographs of the Richmond Opera Hotel document this model installed within the hotel interiors, providing valuable visual evidence of the sconces in their original architectural setting. This documented provenance gives the four pieces an additional historical dimension beyond their rarity and decorative quality.

We thank Olivier Old, son of Maxime Old, who kindly confirmed the authenticity of these sconces.

The model is also documented in the principal monograph devoted to the designer.

Provenance: Richmond Opera Hotel, Paris, France.

Literature: Maxime Old, Norma Editions, 2000, p. 109.

A rare opportunity to acquire two matching pairs with documented Parisian provenance, combining Maxime Old’s refined postwar aesthetic with exceptional decorative presence.

We also have available the matching Maxime Old bronze chandelier, circa 1946. Authenticated by Olivier Old, the chandelier incorporates the same sophisticated combination of bronze, brass and contrasting patinas found on these sconces. According to Olivier Old’s archival research, only one example of the chandelier has been identified to date, suggesting that it was likely a unique special commission.

Price : Upon Request

Materials / Techniques: Bronze/Brass & Silk