
Description
Pair of Galerneau Gilt-Metal "Morea" Coral-Form Candlesticks by Stéphane Galerneau, France, 1990s
This striking pair of French gilt-metal coral-form candlesticks was designed by Stéphane Galerneau and produced in Paris during the 1990s, part of the designer's celebrated Morea series. Each candlestick is cast in dense metal and richly gilded, sculpted in the form of branching marine coral rising organically from a textured, radiating base.
The surfaces display Galerneau's signature emphasis on naturalistic abstraction, with deeply worked, irregular textures that catch and reflect light, giving the gilt finish a luminous, almost molten quality. The branching forms are asymmetrical yet balanced, evoking underwater growth patterns while remaining firmly grounded as sculptural decorative objects.
Both examples are clearly stamped "Galerneau – Paris" at the base, confirming authorship. Substantial in hand, each candlestick weighs approximately 7.5 pounds (15 pounds total for the pair), underscoring the quality of casting and material density. The candle cups are subtly integrated into the upper coral formations, preserving the illusion of natural growth rather than applied ornament.
Galerneau's work is closely associated with French luxury decorative arts of the late 20th century, bridging sculpture, nature-inspired design, and high-end interior decoration. These candlesticks function equally as functional lighting elements or as standalone sculptural accents, ideal for modern, eclectic, or glamorous interiors.
Condition:
Alterations: Unknown
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Good
Wear consistent with age and use.
Dimensions:
Height: 13 in.
Width: 8 in.
Depth: 3 in.
Category: Candlestick Holders & Votive Holders
Origin: France
Materials: Metal
Shipping:Domestic: Flat-rate of $63.00 to anywhere within the contiguous U.S. International: No International Shipping for this auction. Combined shipping: Please ask about combined shipping for multiple lots before bidding. Location: This item ships from Round Top, TX
Your purchase is protected:
In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.
This striking pair of French gilt-metal coral-form candlesticks was designed by Stéphane Galerneau and produced in Paris during the 1990s, part of the designer's celebrated Morea series. Each candlestick is cast in dense metal and richly gilded, sculpted in the form of branching marine coral rising organically from a textured, radiating base.
The surfaces display Galerneau's signature emphasis on naturalistic abstraction, with deeply worked, irregular textures that catch and reflect light, giving the gilt finish a luminous, almost molten quality. The branching forms are asymmetrical yet balanced, evoking underwater growth patterns while remaining firmly grounded as sculptural decorative objects.
Both examples are clearly stamped "Galerneau – Paris" at the base, confirming authorship. Substantial in hand, each candlestick weighs approximately 7.5 pounds (15 pounds total for the pair), underscoring the quality of casting and material density. The candle cups are subtly integrated into the upper coral formations, preserving the illusion of natural growth rather than applied ornament.
Galerneau's work is closely associated with French luxury decorative arts of the late 20th century, bridging sculpture, nature-inspired design, and high-end interior decoration. These candlesticks function equally as functional lighting elements or as standalone sculptural accents, ideal for modern, eclectic, or glamorous interiors.
Condition:
Alterations: Unknown
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Good
Wear consistent with age and use.
Dimensions:
Height: 13 in.
Width: 8 in.
Depth: 3 in.
Category: Candlestick Holders & Votive Holders
Origin: France
Materials: Metal
Shipping:
Your purchase is protected:
In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.
Condition
Unknown; Some Imperfections; Good
Wear consistent with age and use.
Wear consistent with age and use.
Buyer's Premium
20%
Pair of Galerneau Gilt-Metal "Morea" Coral-Form Candlesticks, Paris 1990s
Estimate $3,400-$7,200
Bidding starts
Coming Soon
LiveAuctioneers Purchase Protection
Vetted auction houses
Secure, online bidding
Returns guaranteed for misrepresented listings
Dedicated support when you need it
Design Classics
Mar 20, 2026 4:00 PM EDTNew York, NY, United States
TOP
























