Printed from Woolley & Wallis

Description

AN 18TH CENTURY BRASS 'STABLE' OR 'BIRDCAGE' CANDLESTICK

C.1730-50

the stem of six struts, topped by a pierced disc with downswept hook, the adjustable candle socket on a circular pierced disc with integral loop side handle, all on a turned and waisted stained-beech base with concave underside

31.5cm high

Catalogue Note

Whilst the struts would not prevent a flame from coming into contact with straw and other highly flammable materials, they would have prevented the candle from simply toppling out of the holder, which would have been an invaluable contribution to safety. Hence, they are colloquially called 'stable' candlesticks. They are most usually found made of iron.

Literature

Illustrated in Gentle & Feild, 'English Domestic Brass', p129, fig. 70.

Exhibited

Spink, London, 'An Exhibition of Candlesticks',1974, no. 128.