Pair of candlesticks 1714 - 1715

These candlesticks, crafted in silver by an artist known only as N.H., present a study in contrasts and balances. The reflective surfaces play with light, enhancing the intricate engraved patterns. Notice how the octagonal tops transition into bulbous, ornamented stems, a nod to classical forms, yet subverted with a more ornamental exuberance. This play between geometry and curvilinear shapes destabilizes any singular stylistic categorization. Consider the candlesticks as semiotic objects; they transcend mere functionality, symbolizing status and taste. The repetitive motifs, while decorative, can also be interpreted as a coded language, reflecting the values and cultural codes of their time. The delicate balance achieved between form and decoration invites us to reconsider how objects can embody cultural narratives.