Candlestick - Gilt brass

05
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36
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Zhu Chen
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Estimate  € 120 - € 180
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Egyptian brass Shamadan ceremonial candelabrum for belly dance, dating to 1960s–1980s, 50 cm high with 35 cm diameter, weighing 2 kg and featuring 9 candle holders, made in Egypt.

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Description from the seller

Elegant traditional Egyptian Shamadan, a ceremonial candelabrum specifically designed for belly dance (Raqs Sharqi). Made of brass and produced in Egypt, this object was conceived to be balanced on the dancer's head during the performance.

Equipped with 9 candle holders, the shamadan creates a suggestive scenic effect and is symbolically linked to traditional Egyptian wedding ceremonies (Zaffa), where it was used to illuminate the procession and as a wish for prosperity and good fortune.

The base is equipped with an adjustable helmet, padded in red velvet, designed to ensure grip, comfort, and stability during dance. Using the shamadan requires considerable skill, control, and balance, especially when handled to lively music, making the performance particularly spectacular.

Historically, the early dancers used common lanterns or chandeliers; later, specialized artisans developed dedicated models like this one, specifically designed for choreographic performance.

Measures
height 50 cm
diameter 35 cm
Weight 2 kg

Excellent conditions, with a normal patina from age.

Elegant traditional Egyptian Shamadan, a ceremonial candelabrum specifically designed for belly dance (Raqs Sharqi). Made of brass and produced in Egypt, this object was conceived to be balanced on the dancer's head during the performance.

Equipped with 9 candle holders, the shamadan creates a suggestive scenic effect and is symbolically linked to traditional Egyptian wedding ceremonies (Zaffa), where it was used to illuminate the procession and as a wish for prosperity and good fortune.

The base is equipped with an adjustable helmet, padded in red velvet, designed to ensure grip, comfort, and stability during dance. Using the shamadan requires considerable skill, control, and balance, especially when handled to lively music, making the performance particularly spectacular.

Historically, the early dancers used common lanterns or chandeliers; later, specialized artisans developed dedicated models like this one, specifically designed for choreographic performance.

Measures
height 50 cm
diameter 35 cm
Weight 2 kg

Excellent conditions, with a normal patina from age.

Details

Era
1900-2000
Weight
2 kg
Brass type
Gilt brass
No. of items
1
Country of Origin
Egypt
Material
Brass
Colour
Gold, Red
Condition
Excellent condition: barely used with minimal signs of wear
Height
50 cm
Width
35 cm
Depth
35 cm
Estimated Period
1960-1970, 1970-1980
Sold by
ItalyVerified
Private

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