Antique Italian Silver Gilt Candle Stand circa 1890 Converted to a Floor Lamp

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Antique Italian Silver Gilt Candle Stand circa 1890 Converted to a Floor Lamp

About the Item

Receive our new selections direct from 1stdibs by email each week. Please click Follow Dealer below and see them first! An imposing antique Italian silver gilt candle stand circa 1890 now converted to a floor lamp. Please look at the scale of this floor lamp that sits upon an elevated square base and has a column reminiscent of those used in both exterior and interior architecture. The relationship in size between the height of the column and the diametre gives this candle stand its pleasing stature. The entire candle stand retains its original silver leaf finish with areas where the silver leaf reveals the wooden structure as well as the coating of gesso that gives silver and gold leaf its unique visual texture. The seductive lustre and reflective aspect of the silver leaf creates a glamorous glow whether the lamp is illuminated or seen unlit during the day. Look closely at the four circular feet beneath each corner of the square base to see that they each have the same shape as one of the sections on the upper part of the column. This repetition of the same shape gives a sense of coherence to the entire appearance of the candle stand and is one of the defining features seen in the ruins of the ancient civilizations of Greece and Rome that retain their enormous influence in architecture and the decorative arts. The entire column and base are circular in shape and consist of both turned ring sections interspersed with broad and smooth sections. The change in profile between the two give the lamp visual interest and mimic the support function achieved by true architectural columns. There is a very interesting aspect to the section of the column beneath the wide circular drip pan beneath the candle nozzle at the top as this long section is slightly more narrow at the base and the top with the middle section having a slight outward flare. This slight bulge is known as "entasis" and is a characteristic of the earliest remaining columns ever constructed by man. Originally the topmost section of the candle stand was used to set a large candle within its opening while the wide flat dish was placed below to capture any wax dripping from a burning candle. This part is known as the "nozzle" and is seen on any candle stick no matter how tiny or how grand. Take a look at the top of the smooth column section as it ends in a simple ring motif before connecting to the upper candle section. The horizontal area is a separate piece of silver gilded wood that is in the shape of an flat octagon and is the only area of the candle stand to have a straight edge besides the square base. It is this slight alteration in what is expected that gives this particular piece its charm. Now of course the candle stand has been rewired as a floor lamp with the nozzle fitted with a socket for a three way standard bulb. This fitting gives maximum flexibility in the amount of light it is able to cast within an interior to create a variety of moods. In addition the lamp has a dramatic black paper drum shade that gives it a modern edge and focuses the light directly upon the antique candle stand itself in a dramatic fashion.

Dimensions:
Height: 72 in (182.88 cm)Width: 18 in (45.72 cm)Depth: 18 in (45.72 cm)
Style:
Baroque (In the Style Of)
Materials and Techniques:
Silver Leaf,Wood
Place of Origin:
Italy
Period:
1890-1899
Date of Manufacture:
circa 1890
Condition:
Wear consistent with age and use.
Seller Location:
Houston, TX
Reference Number:
Seller: EEJ3851stDibs: LU86683147092