Pair of candlesticks 1739 - 1740

These silver candlesticks were crafted by John Gould in the 18th century. Immediately, you're struck by their symmetry. Each candlestick mirrors the other, from the octagonal base to the cylindrical candle holder, creating a sense of balance. Gould has employed a formal structure, yet it subtly disrupts a rigid reading. Notice how the vertical lines of the stem are softened by bulbous curves, creating a visual rhythm. The base, while appearing geometrically sound, is subtly ornamented, catching the light in a delicate play of textures. This interplay between the geometric and the organic suggests a negotiation between the Enlightenment's emphasis on reason and the Rococo's love for ornamentation. The silver material adds another layer. Its reflective surface alters with the ambient light, destabilizing any fixed perception. These candlesticks aren't merely functional; they invite a continuous, shifting interpretation, challenging the viewer to see beyond the surface.