Candlestick 1500

This candlestick was made by Jehan Aert van Tricht in the Netherlands around 1500 out of brass. The figure of a fool or jester is not an obvious choice for a functional object such as this. During this period, fools occupied a unique space in society, often associated with aristocratic courts. Their roles went beyond simple entertainment, offering social commentary and satire that others couldn't voice. The candlestick becomes more than just a source of light. It suggests a playful inversion of social norms. The figure’s attire and stance, combined with the practical function of the candlestick, challenge the seriousness often associated with religious or official settings. Was it intended for private amusement, or was it also meant to provoke thought, even dissent? To fully understand its implications, we'd need to delve into court records, popular literature, and even the personal inventories of the time. These resources help us see the candlestick not just as a decorative object, but as a coded artifact reflecting the complexities of its social and political context.