Russian and Swirl Pattern Cut Glass Candlesticks

An outstanding pair of sterling silver candlesticks by English silversmith Alexander Johnston. Reflecting the mid-18th century Georgian taste for the Rococo style, these candlesticks feature deeply chased decoration, from shells and palms to acanthus and rosettes, as well as an engraved armorial on each pedestal. Their exuberant yet balanced design is characteristic of the sophisticated style brought to England by French Huguenot silversmiths in the 1700s. Alexander Johnston first entered his mark in 1747 and work such as his, as well as that of artists like the celebrated Paul de Lamerie, indicated the adoption of French forms in all of the decorative arts, from furniture to textiles, hailing the dramatic shift from the more restrained classical manner. Excellent condition. Hallmarked London, 1751 10 ¾” high Reference: English goldsmiths and their marks, 2nd ed., 1921, Sir Charles James Jackson.

Splendid continuous hand-painted scenes adorn these graceful and rare Viennese silver and enamel candlesticks. Adorned with scenes of gods and goddesses from classical mythology, these lights are executed with exceptional detail and artistry. A fantastic testament to the skilled artisans of Austria, they exemplify remarkable design and craftsmanship. Enameling is one of the oldest forms of decorative art with examples dating back almost 3,000 years to Mycenaean Greece. The methods used in the enameling process have changed very little since that time. Enamel is actually glass colored with metallic pigments that are fused to metal by firing. Because different colors fire at different temperatures, it was essential that the artist paint the colors that required the highest heat first, adding the others in descending order of their firing temperature. The forte of the Viennese enamellers...

American, 19th century. A pair of fine quality antique American Brilliant Period Cut Glass candlesticks in the RARE Russia...

Splendid cut crystal candlesticks, composed of a square base and refined geometric decorations. High-quality craftsmanship dates back to the early 20th century in Italy. The delicate...