Late Victorian
Circa late 19th–early 20th century | England
An antique pair of late Victorian extra tall oak candlesticks (see The Gen) with barley twist form stems, topped with decorative brass sconces on a circular raised turned foot. A felt bottom protects the base.
DIMENSIONS: Height 47 cm, Base Diameter 15 cm.
CONDITION: In excellent condition, wear consistent with an antique age and use. The oak has a lovely patination created by many years of handling and polishing, and looks wonderful when a candle is lit.
REFERENCES: For an example of similar candlesticks see Bonhams, 28 August 2005, Lot 4319.
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THE GEN
“Twist candlesticks … were specialities of turners, who developed their craft with the invention of the lathe around 1450. They have all been popular ever since, but the double and triple open twists require the greatest amount of skill. In older examples the wood was cut away from the sides but in more modern specimens the turners have removed the centre core from inside the spiral twists with a drill. During the various antique revivals of the Victorian period, 17th- and 18th- century styles in wood were reproduced. The machine then took over much of the turner’s job.” (Candlesticks, Deborah Stratton, Pitman, 1976, p. 32)
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Would you like to know more about this piece? Email info@georgegen.com.au I would be happy to help.
