A PA I R O F C A N D L E S T I C K S W I T H L I O N F E E T
This particular form of candlestick is exemplary for Central Europe of the late 15th and early 16th century. Larger examples like ours, visually more impressive and more elaborated, were used as light sources in the residences of noblemen where they served as a sign of taste and prestige, as well as in churches during various ceremonies. Sets of such candlesticks were often arranged in a symmetrical manner around altars and tombs (see figs 1+ 2), providing light during services while gracefully complementing the surrounding church decoration.
Germany or South Netherlands (probably Nuremberg or Dinant) Late 15th/ early 16th century Copper alloy, cast Height: 135 cm Provenance: Private American Collection. Related Literature: Mende, Ursula. Die mittelalterlichen Bronzen im Germanischen Nationalmuseum, Nuremberg 2013.
Our pair of candlesticks, solid and of substantial weight, is in excellent condition. Each candlestick has a straight stem on a circular, hollow, bell-shaped base with a three-step profile. The stems are decorated with three flat knobs and shallow moulded rings. On the top there are high iron prickets (the pricket on one candlestick is a later replacement) above wide, bell-shaped, tapering drip pans. The base of each candlestick is decorated with three lions. With their elegant poses and stylised manes and tails, they were positioned on top of their respective orbs. The motifs of the lion and lion feet were used on candlesticks and other decorative arts objects throughout the 15th and 16th century, as well as in heraldry, and symbolise power, justice and wisdom.
D’Allemagne, Henry-René. Histoire du luminaire depuis l‘époque romaine jusqu‘au XIXe siècle, Paris 1981. Flanders in the Fifteenth Century: Art and Civilization, exh. cat., Detroit Institute of Arts, Detroit 1960.
At the time of their production these objects were certainly considered precious items, as casting was a highly specialised craft. They were made to hold expensive beeswax candles; unlike more common and affordable tallow candles, beeswax candles were more appreciated because of their clear bright flame, firmness, slow burning and more pleasant scent.
07
50
