Candlestick & nozzle, one of pair

Date1753-1754

Artist/Maker Edward Wakelin (active 1747-1777)

MediumSilver (Sterling)

DimensionsOH: 11 1/4"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1993-43,2A&B

DescriptionOne of a pair of George II silver candlesticks; removable nozzle with broad flanged edge of leaf form with stem at one end and underside more textured than upper face as in nature; deep bezel to nozzle fitting within socket with shaped collar on underside fitting undulating rim of socket; balustroidal socket dressed with active band of slotted ruffling bound by scrolls at the top with a meandering leafed and fruited grapevine extending downward in a spiraling path from the rim; stem of highly modified inverted-baluster form and twisting design with scrolled, fluted, and imbricated articulation; unusual detached band of C-scroll form with imbricated face attached to upper part of stem; swirls and grapevine of stem extending down into upper section of base finely chased to simulate waves and surf; base supported and elevated on three integral scrolled and voluted feet with panels of flat-chased scalework. Inscribed on underside of base: Underside of base inscribed: "No 2 45 0." Bezel of nozzle inscribed: "No 2." Except for bezel of nozzle, all elements are cast.
Label TextThese candlesticks are superior examples of the English rococo taste, extraordinary in the way that their bases lift off of the table surface. The entire candlestick twists in orchestrated movement.
InscribedUnderside of base inscribed: "No 2 45 0." Bezel of nozzle inscribed: "No 2."
MarkingsFully marked on underside of base: (1) maker's/sponsor's mark "EW" in black letters with Prince of Wales feathers above within a conforming reserve, (2) leopard's head crowned, (3) lion passant, and (4) date letter. Maker's/sponsor's mark and lion passant on bezel.
ProvenanceThese candlesticks were most recently acquired by the owner of A La Vieille Russie (781 Fifth Avenue, NYC) along with some continental objects. He then went into half-shares with Eric N. Shrubsole, who approached Colonial Williamsburg. Their previous history is unknown, except for a French import mark of the late 19th/early 20th century of a standing swan facing left on the rims of both sockets and the bezels of both sockets.