Pair of Large Carved and Gilt Wooden Altar Pricket Candlesticks, 18th Century

Description

This pair of large altar pricket candlesticks in carved wood with water-gilt decoration rises from an imposing architectural tripod base, animated by ribbed volutes and foliate cartouches decorated with a stylised vegetal motif in relief. Each piece continues with a powerful baluster shaft, articulated by a gadrooned swelling knop, turned rings and an upper fluted shaft flaring into a corolla. A broad circular drip pan with a chased border crowns the whole and retains its original wrought-iron pricket. Dated to the 18th century, the pair may be situated in Italy or France. The gilding displays wear from use and period losses, revealing the gesso preparation and bole beneath, signs of an old patina. Height: 104 cm.