Images(6)

Candlestick, One of a Pair

Date1694-1695

OriginEngland, London

MediumSilver (Sterling)

DimensionsOH:4 7/8"; OW:3 7/16"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1936-450,2

DescriptionCandlestick Silver; cylindrical socket with multiple molding at rim, mid-band, and cupped lower part; main section of stem of inverted-baluster form with knop below; broad base of square plan with canted corners with circular well with molded edge in top, stepped and molded sides with band of gadrooning, and molded edge; stem cast in two parts vertically and base in one
Label TextCast candlesticks with baluster stems appear to have been introduced into England from France. Judging from extant examples, their introduction coincides with the arrival of the early Huguenot silversmiths, for among the earliest-known English candlesticks of this type are a set of four at Althorp House and a smaller pair, formerly owned by Sir John Noble, all made by Pierre Harache, Sr., of London in 1683/84. By the turn of the century, such candlesticks had supplanted the less substantial wrought ones of columnar form. Cast candlesticks with baluster stems remained fashionable through the mid eighteenth century. Even though casting permits repetition, candlesticks of this period show amazing variety and responsiveness to changes in taste. These candlesticks of small size were probably intended for use on a dressing table.
InscribedNone
MarkingsMaker's marks script letter "R" in shaped reserve struck over script letter "B" in shaped reserve, leopard's head crowned, liom passant, and date letter on the underside of each base
ProvenanceCrichton Bros., London