Busacca Gallery

Baroque Revival Pair of Bronze candlestick Prickets Circa Late 19th to Early 19th Century Dimensions: 15 ¾" H x 6" W. This exquisite pair of Baroque Revival bronze candlestick prickets is a fine example of craftsmanship from the late 19th to early 20th century. Each piece rests on a triangular base with a squat spool foot, supporting a single column adorned with putto heads. The intricate detailing includes heraldic shields, scrolls, and garlands, adding to their ornate appeal. The tops of the prickets feature "S"-shaped scroll arms and wide bobeches with spindle interactions, further emphasizing their decorative elegance. Provenance: Unknown / Condition: Good overall condition with some wear consistent with age. One decorative element is missing at the base, and there is light corrosion visible on the bobeche. The Baroque Revival style emerged in the 19th century as a nostalgic reimagining of the dramatic and ornate Baroque period of the 17th century. Characterized by intricate details, grandiose designs, and opulent materials, it sought to evoke the splendor of Europe's aristocratic past. Bronze candlestick prickets from this era, such as this pair dating to the late 19th to early 20th century, reflect the revival's emphasis on artistry and craftsmanship. Featuring putto heads, heraldic shields, scrolls, and garlands, these prickets exemplify the blend of functional design and decorative opulence. Often used in ecclesiastical settings or affluent homes, they served both as lighting fixtures and as symbols of taste and refinement, embodying the revival’s romanticized interpretation of history.

Candlestick lighting in the 19th century marked a period of transition from traditional to more modern forms of illumination. As one of the primary light sources before the widespread adoption of gas and electric lighting, candlesticks were both functional and decorative. Early in the century, they retained their traditional forms, with materials such as brass, bronze, and silver being common among affluent households. These candlesticks often reflected prevailing artistic movements, from the ornate curves of Rococo Revival to the clean lines of Neoclassicism. With the Industrial Revolution, advancements in manufacturing allowed for mass production, making candlesticks more affordable and accessible. However, they also became increasingly ornamental, serving as statement pieces in Victorian homes. Styles like Gothic Revival, Baroque Revival, and even the emerging Arts and Crafts movement influenced the designs, with intricate details, religious motifs, and exotic inspirations becoming popular. Despite the rise of gas and electric lighting in the latter half of the century, candlesticks continued to be used for ambient or ceremonial purposes. They transitioned from essential items to symbols of tradition and elegance, reflecting the cultural and aesthetic values of the 19th century.