Miniature snuffers 1685 - 1695

These miniature snuffers were crafted by George Middleton sometime between the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Their purpose was simple: to trim and extinguish the burning wicks of candles, reducing smoke and prolonging the candle's life. But look closer. Notice the floral motif that decorates the box where the wick would be placed. These details elevate the utilitarian object beyond mere functionality. We see in them a connection to a much broader history of floral symbolism, evoking themes of life, death, and renewal. The delicate floral carvings echo those found in ancient Roman funerary art, where flowers symbolized hope and remembrance. This connection transcends time, reminding us of the cyclical nature of life and the enduring human desire to find beauty, even in the most mundane aspects of our existence. Isn't it curious how we return to these motifs, generation after generation?