Candlestick c. 1817 - 1822

This candlestick was made by S.C. Younge and Co. from silver, a material prized for its sheen and malleability. The method of production would likely have involved casting the basic form, followed by extensive chasing and engraving to create the intricate surface decoration. Silver, while precious, is relatively soft, allowing for incredible detail. Notice how the chasing emphasizes the play of light across the surface. This object speaks to the rise of industrial manufacturing in the 19th century, where firms like Younge could produce luxury items on a larger scale than ever before. It sits at the intersection of craft and industry, demanding both skilled handwork and the efficiencies of factory production. The candlestick is a testament to the complex social dynamics of the period, where traditional craft practices were being reshaped by new forms of labor and consumption. Appreciating this context helps us understand the candlestick as more than just a functional object, but as a reflection of its time.