Candlestick (2) - Gilt bronze

Pair of cast-bronze candelabra, 17th century (inscribed date 1641)
Northern Italy / Central European area, Baroque milieu

Extraordinary pair of ancient cast-bronze candelabra, produced using a mold casting technique and subsequently finished by file and chisel, characterized by notable weight, metal thickness and sculptural quality, elements that attest to an ancient, non-serial production.

The candelabra feature a screwed modular structure, a practical feature documented as early as the 17th century for large bronze works, designed to facilitate casting, transport, and maintenance. The presence of the antique threaded pin, consistent with wear and oxidation, confirms historical, not modern, construction.

The base is decorated with a baroque-style anthropomorphic mask, with expressive features accentuated, stylized mustache and beard. There are visible lily motifs and vegetal decorations.

On the body of the base appears an oval surmounted by a crown, within which the date “1641” is inscribed, an element of great historical interest.

The inscribed date is stylistically coherent with the decorative language and with the typology of baroque candelabra from the first half of the 17th century, and finds comparisons in North Italian, German, and Scandinavian works of the same period.

Ancient bronze with natural historical patina
Green oxidation traces (copper) consistent with long exposure and aging
Unfinished interiors, as typical of ancient casts
No aggressive modern polishing
Condition of preservation very good considering the age
Slight signs of time that enhance authenticity and value