Pair of candlesticks 1729 - 1730

These candlesticks were made by Gilles-Claude Gouel, a master silversmith in 18th-century France. Silver has always been a precious material, valued for its beauty and malleability. Consider the techniques Gouel would have used to bring these objects to life. Silversmiths like Gouel employed a range of skills, including casting, hammering, and chasing, to shape the metal into the desired form. The candlesticks would have begun as ingots of raw silver, refined and alloyed for workability. The various components – the base, stem, and candle cup – were likely formed separately and then soldered together with minute precision. Now, think about the social context. These candlesticks speak volumes about the rituals, class and consumption of the period. Silver objects like these were luxury items, adorning the tables of the wealthy elite. Their gleaming surfaces would have reflected candlelight, creating an atmosphere of refinement and extravagance. By focusing on materials, making, and context, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural significance of these everyday items, transcending the traditional boundaries between fine art and craft.