Late Victorian
Circa late 19th–early 20th century | England
An antique pair of late Victorian extra tall oak candlesticks with barley twist stems, topped with decorative brass sconces and ornate brass leaf cast drip trays on a wide circular shallow lipped foot. A felt bottom protects the base (see The Gen).
DIMENSIONS: Height 46.5 cm, base 16 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.
REFERENCES: For an example of similar candlesticks see Bonhams, 28 August 2005, Lot 4319.
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THE GEN
“Wooden candlesticks have been in use from earliest times; wood and rough pottery were probably the first materials to be used in the home. The wood may have been a base for iron rushlight and candleholders or a complete candlestick—because of its ready availability from nearby forests. However, few examples have survived because of the relative unsuitability to the task of providing light by fire. When forgotten, the early quick-burning tallow candles must have often dissolved down to the flame and set the candlestick, and, sometimes, the entire house alight.
In England carved wooden candlesticks were fashionable during the 18th century. A number of these which have the sensible feature of metal or metal-lined sockets have survived. As wood is hard to date, the collector must compare similar styles in hall-marked silver and look for signs of age, wear and polishing on the surfaces.” (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.
