Candlestick 1786

This candlestick was made in America in the late 18th century by John Scofield, using silver. Candlesticks like these served more than a practical purpose. They visually represented the wealth and status of their owners. Silver, as a precious metal, was not accessible to everyone. These objects provide insights into the social and economic structures of the time. During the late 1700s, the American colonies were transitioning into a new nation. Artisans, like Scofield, played a role in shaping a uniquely American identity through their craft. The design of this candlestick, with its neoclassical influence, reflects the cultural references and aesthetic preferences of the period, while its production and ownership were tied to the economic realities of a society built on nascent capitalism and, let's not forget, enslaved labor. Understanding an object like this requires research into the silversmithing trade, economic data, and probate records. It reveals the ways in which art and material culture are inextricably linked to the social context in which they are made and used.