Candlestick (2) - Wood

Pair of altar candlesticks in finely hand-carved wood, an excellent testament to Italian cabinetmaking skill of the mid-19th century. They rise from a slender baluster shaft with foliate motifs, resting on a majestic tripod base animated by rich opposing scrolls.

• Bulino work: The front section of the base is embellished with a refined geometric latticework (grid pattern), incised on the plaster layer before gilding.
• Rear “economy”: The back features the typical ochre polychrome finish, an important ecclesiastical detail that shows these objects were conceived exclusively for the altar.
• Integrity of the pair: It is rare to find two coeval altar elements that have survived dispersion. The minimal carving asymmetries confirm it is entirely handmade.
• Double stratification: The plates tell the evolution of use of the pieces. The first preserves the fragment of the old iron pin for the candles; the second bears a threaded bushing from the early 1900s for electrification. A fascinating historical document of transition.

• Era: Mid-19th Century (High 1800s / Period of Historicism and Eclecticism).
• Style / Origin: Baroque Revival (Luigi XIV inspiration) – Italian mid-northern craftsmanship.
• Materials: Solid wood, period plasterwork, Armenian bole, gold leaf gilding and mecca (likely mecca gold/metal).
• Dimensions: Height 38 cm | Base width 10 cm

Condition:
In original patina, never restored or altered by modern restorations. The surface shows a fascinating historical patina, with widespread losses of the gold film and plaster at wear points, revealing the reddish bole beneath. The modified plate presents a radial crack dating to the period. The feet show signs of old worming (not active) requiring a normal consolidation treatment.
Custom packaging for this very delicate item will be made with the utmost care and precision and is included in the lot price. Read my reviews for references.