Pair of candlesticks 1723 - 1725

These candlesticks were made in France, by Jacques Delavigne, out of silver. They exemplify the silversmith’s art. Note how the material is formed: each element, from the octagonal base to the candle cup, would have been shaped separately, then joined by soldering. Observe also the engraved decoration, cut into the surface with hand-held tools. Think about the labour involved in the production of these objects, which would have been considerable. Silver needed to be mined, refined, transported, and of course, fashioned by a highly skilled artisan. The final product would have been owned by someone of great wealth and status. This kind of close attention to materials, making, and context is essential to fully understand the candlesticks. It allows us to appreciate not only their aesthetic qualities but also their social and economic significance. It challenges the traditional separation between fine art and craft.