In the second half of the 19th century the grey and purple porphyry from Korgon became a favourite material for cut-stone articles produced by the Kolyvan Lapidary Works. This variety of stone - homogeneous in structure and colour - was eminently suitable for artistic work. The pair of torchères are a superb demonstration of the craftsmen's expertise in working this stone. Apart from the pedestal and the vase-like top, the whole surface of the torchères is covered in ornamental carving.
Originally the torchères incorporated Carcel lamps with tall shades. These special lamps with a clockwork mechanism that pumped oil to the burner were invented about 1800 by a Frenchman named Carcel.