Images(3)

Candle Shade

Date1770-1820

OriginEngland

MediumGlass

DimensionsOverall: 19 1/2 x 7 1/4in. (49.5cm, 7 1/4in.)

Credit LineGift of Doris Gwaltney

Object number2016-95

DescriptionColorless lead glass. Blown. Hollow cylinder swelled at center and flared at bottom with outward-folded edge.
Label TextThis form is known today as a hurricane shade, but these pieces were called candle shades or India shades in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. They were designed to fit over a candlestick to protect the flame from the effects of wind and drafts. When Henry Wetherburn at Wetherburn's tavern in Williamsburg died in 1760 his inventory listed two candle glasses, which were likely of this form.
ProvenanceDescended in the Purdie family, probably from Dr. John Hyndman Purdie (1770-1845) to son Dr. John Robinson Purdie (1807-1896), to son Thomas Smith Purdie (1854-1923) to son Kenneth Sinclair Purdie (1892-1983), to cousin, donor, Doris Gwaltney.