Tudor Candlestick
Material: Copper alloy, probably bronze
Dimensions: Height: 37cm / 14 ½in, Base diameter: 19cm / 7 ½in
Place of Origin: England
Date: Second quarter 16th century
Maker or Retailer: Unknown
Present Location: Private collection
Explanation:
This fine candlestick is an exceptionally large and sophisticated example of the so-called ‘Tudor’ family. The form shows clear signs of Continental influence, but there is general agreement that these candlesticks were made in England and some examples bear contemporary inscriptions in English. Such a large and elaborate candlestick would have been a costly item in its own day and beyond the means of any but a very high-status individual.
Caspall illustrates this candlestick and dates it to circa 1530.
References:
- John Caspall, Making Fire and Light in the Home pre-1820, Antique Collectors’ Club, Woodbridge, Suffolk, 1987, ISBN 1851490213, p. 81, Fig. 143
- Ronald F. Michaelis, Old Domestic Base-Metal Candlesticks, Antique Collectors’ Club, Woodbridge, Suffolk, 1978, ISBN 0902028278, pp. 43 – 47, Figs. 33 – 36
- Christopher Bangs, The Lear Collection, King’s Hill Publications, Easton, PA, USA, 1995, ISBN 096422240X, pp. 84 – 91, 242 – 8, Figs. 47 – 53
- Rupert Gentle & Rachael Feild, Domestic Metalwork 1640 – 1820, 2nd edition revised by Belinda Gentle, Antique Collectors’ Club, Woodbridge, Suffolk, 1994, ISBN 1851491872, pp. 118 – 9, Figs. 1 – 3
- England at the tyme of the Armada, British Antique Dealers’ Association
