Chenet

Art Historical Context

Nestled in the Robert Lehman Collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art,Chenet* is a example of 19th-century French gilt bronze metalwork from Paris. Standing at 41.3 cm high, this decorative andiron—known as a *chenet* in French cast in two parts, showcasing the era's masterful foundry techniques. Its gleaming gold surface and elegant form highlight the opulence of Second Empire and Belle Époque interiors, where such pieces supported fire grates while doubling as sculptural ornaments. The motifs of women and guitars evoke the romantic spirit of the time, blending musical reverie with femin...