Interiors & Decorations

Jewellery & Precious Stones

Watches, Pens & Lighters

Fashion

Coins & Stamps

Comics & Animation

Classic Cars, Motorcycles & Automobilia

Wine, Whisky & Spirits

Asian & Tribal Art

Trading Cards

Toys & Models

Archaeology & Natural History

Sports

Music, Movies & Cameras

Books & Historical Memorabilia

The finest objects brought to you by {name}

Paul Wullems

This exquisite Renaissance brass candlestick, dating to the 16th century, exemplifies the refined artistry and evolving design sensibilities of early modern Europe. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the candlestick stands as both a utilitarian object and a testament to the decorative arts of the Renaissance period—a time when even household items were imbued with elegance, symbolism, and classical inspiration.

The candlestick is cast entirely in solid brass, a material prized during the Renaissance not only for its warm, golden hue but also for its durability and the ease with which it could be shaped and engraved. Its form is both balanced and sculptural, reflecting the architectural influences of the era. The base is typically tri-lobed or polygonal, sometimes with subtle scrolling or molded feet, designed to provide stability and visual interest. Rising from this foundation is a tapered or baluster-shaped shaft, often composed of multiple turned and stacked segments that reflect the aesthetic harmony of Renaissance geometry.

The central column is frequently adorned with engraved or incised decoration, including floral motifs, geometric patterns, or stylized foliate scrolls—each a nod to nature and classical antiquity, central themes in Renaissance design. In more elaborate examples, subtle figural details or allegorical symbolism might be integrated, offering insight into the intellectual and artistic culture of the time.

At the top, a bobeche or drip pan encircles the candle socket, elegantly flared and designed to catch melting wax, protecting both the candlestick and the surrounding furnishings. The socket itself is deep and narrow, meant to hold a slender taper candle securely, emphasizing verticality and light—a symbol of both spiritual and intellectual enlightenment during the Renaissance.

Over the centuries, the brass has developed a rich, mellow patina, a testament to its age and authenticity. The surface may show slight wear, softening of fine details, or subtle signs of hand-finishing, all of which contribute to its historical character and charm.

Candlesticks like this one were not merely functional—they were objects of status and refinement, used in both domestic and ecclesiastical settings. In affluent homes, such pieces were often displayed prominently, reflecting the owner's taste, education, and engagement with the humanist ideals of the Renaissance. In churches, they played a liturgical role, casting symbolic light upon sacred rites and enhancing the visual drama of the altar.

This 16th-century brass candlestick is a rare and evocative survival from an age of artistic rebirth. It invites both aesthetic admiration and historical curiosity, standing as a luminous relic of a world where beauty and function were intricately intertwined.

Portugal Gothic  - 16th century

Candlestick - Brass

Antiques & Classic Furniture

Reserve price

No reserve price

Buy now

Closing date

Sunday

28 December

Wednesday

Thursday

tomorrow

26 December

27 December

Tuesday

Monday

29 December

4 January

30 December

Budget

From

Location

The Netherlands

Italy

Belgium

France

Spain

Germany

Poland

Portugal

Hungary

United Kingdom

Latvia

Romania

Austria

Switzerland

Bulgaria

Hong Kong

Estonia

Lithuania

Greece

Sweden

Slovenia

Denmark

Ireland

Luxembourg

Slovak Republic

Dimensions

Height

Width

Depth

Brand

Jaeger-LeCoultre

WMF / Geislingen

Val Saint Lambert

Christofle

Thonet

Max le Verrier

Rosenthal

Gallia

Daum Frères

Degué

Emile Gallé

Zsolnay

Émaux de Longwy

Zenith

Boch Frères

Baccarat

Erhard & Söhne

Legras & Cie.

Longwy

Muller Frères

Orivit

Pander & Zn.

Moser & Söhne

Doyen

Object

Sculpture

Religious objects

Clock

Vase

Mantel clock

Icon

Frame

Wall clock

Reliquary

Statue

Decanter

Chair

Candleholder

Mortar

Table/desk clock

Lamp

Mirror

Decorative ornament

Candlestick

Walking stick

Table

Cupboard

Chandelier

Hanging lamp

Tablecloth

Country of origin

Netherlands

Europe

Russia

Czechia

Unknown

China

United States

Asia

Africa

Israel

Peru

Material

Wood

Bronze

Brass

Glass

Marble

Metal

Silver

Silverplated

Gilt bronze

Crystal

Iron

Earthenware

Walnut

Mahogany

Copper

Textile

Porcelain

Ceramic

Spelter

Paper

Patinated bronze

Wrought iron

Gilt wood

Enamel

Gender

Women

Unisex

Condition

Good condition - used with small signs of aging & blemishes

Good condition - used with small signs of ageing

Excellent condition: barely used with minimal signs of wear

Good condition

Fair condition -  heavily used & with possibly minor parts missing

As new - unused

Fair condition

Excellent condition

Very good condition - slightly used with small signs of wear

Good

Excellent condition - barely used with minimal signs of wear

Good condition - used with some signs of wear

Good condition, used with some signs of wear

Poor - heavily used with major cracks, damages or major parts missing

Fine

Mint

Worn & in very good condition

Fair

Needs restoration

As new

Very good

Good condition, see description

Non-functioning/ For restoration

A (excellent - mint condition)

Very used condition, used with visible signs of wear

Period

1850-1900

1920-1930

1900-1910

1930-1940

1800-1850

1910-1920

1950-1960

1940-1950

1750-1800

1960-1970

2020+

1970-1980

1990-2000

1700-1750

Antiques & Classic Furniture

This object is no longer available, but there’s still lots to explore

Candlestick - Brass

Popular in Antiques & Classic Furniture

2965 objects

Related collections

Cookies

Antiques & Classic Furniture

This object is no longer available, but there’s still lots to explore

Candlestick - Brass

Popular in Antiques & Classic Furniture

2965 objects

Related collections