Candlestick c. 18th century

This candlestick, now without a known maker, is crafted from pewter, an alloy of tin and lead prized for its dull sheen and workability. To make an object like this, the pewter would have been heated until molten, and then poured into a mold. After cooling, the object would have been removed and polished to a soft luster. The material’s inherent softness allows for the crisp lines that define the candlestick's shape. The weight of the base, a material property, helps to keep it stable. Pewter was often used for domestic objects because of its relative affordability compared to silver or gold. The production of pewter objects like this one involved skilled labor, but also more broadly available materials, placing it within reach of a growing middle class. Considering the materials, the making, and the social context allows us to appreciate the artistry and cultural significance embedded in this seemingly simple object.