Antique Italian Neoclassical Gold Leafed Candlestick from Italy, circa 1885

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Antique Italian Neoclassical Gold Leafed Candlestick from Italy, circa 1885

About the Item

A handsome antique Italian neoclassical style gold leafed candlestick from Italy circa 1885. This elegant candle stick derives its visual appeal from the balance and symmetry of its constituent parts. The base of the candle stick has three sections each with an inverted profile centred on a raised three part flower resembling the French fleur-de-lys. The change in profile between the smoothness of the inward curve throws the raised lines of the carving into high relief and creates a play of shadow and light across the area contained within the feet of the candle stick. All three of the inverted sections are bounded by a support distinguished with an upper and lower scroll that are raised higher than the inverted areas. The feet of the candle stick are round turned knobs that elevate a tall square section defined on the front and both sides with a pattern of vertical fluting. All three of these large vertical sections are topped with a shaped finial top reminiscent of the famous onion domes seen in Orthodox church architecture in Russia. The elongated sphere that comes to a rounded point at the top echoes the fluted pattern of the leg supports while reinforcing the vertical quality of the lower section of the candle stand. The top of the base is also triangular in shape with a moulded profile to the edge that extends slightly over the top of each of the three legs. Set within the centre of this triangle is a tall tapered column with three areas defined by fluting set at a greater diameter than the four inverted sections. Interestingly the column possesses a much more angular appearance than the base while continuing the very vertical profile of the entire piece. At the top of the candle stand there is a return to the circular quality that defines many candlesticks as the wide circular disk set beneath the candle nozzle could capture any dripping wax that might fall when a candle is lit while the actual candle nozzle itself is also circular to provide a secure fit for the candle itself. The slight curved edge to the profile of the nozzle and the section just beneath the drip pan is set in opposition to the angular quality of the lower part and accentuates the neoclassical styling. Because of the height of this candle stand it may be used on the floor of an interior as well as being placed upon a table. The candle stand was originally designed and continues to this day to be meant to be seen fully in the round and was therefore placed in a position in a room where it could be seen from all angles not merely placed within a corner. The dazzling gleam of the gold leaf surface added a superb sense of luxury and lavishness that remains apparent today. Whether used as a true candle stick or as part of a collection for display within a room this is a beautiful example of the manner in which rooms were kept usable after dark and will continue to be a focal point wherever it is placed.

Dimensions:
Height: 34 in (86.36 cm)Width: 11.5 in (29.21 cm)Depth: 10.5 in (26.67 cm)
Style:
Neoclassical (Of the Period)
Materials and Techniques:
Gold Leaf
Place of Origin:
Italy
Period:
1850-1859
Date of Manufacture:
circa 1885
Condition:
Wear consistent with age and use.
Seller Location:
Houston, TX
Reference Number:
Seller: EEJ0661stDibs: LU866810381831