Candlestick c. late 17th century

Editor: So, this object is called "Candlestick," made by an anonymous artist around the late 17th century. It’s brass, simple in design, but elegant, I would say. I’m interested in how something so functional can also be appreciated for its form. What do you see when you look at this piece? Curator: I immediately focus on the materiality and production. This isn't just about aesthetics. Brass wasn’t readily available. How was the raw material acquired? What sort of labor was involved in its extraction, processing, and eventual creation into this functional object? These candlesticks weren't just decorations; they were necessities. Think about the social hierarchy of the late 17th century. Did this Candlestick represent status? Was it for everyday use? How often would the labor that made the object see it in the space that it lights? Editor: That’s interesting; I hadn't considered the social context of the materials so deeply. Curator: Absolutely. Also, brass itself…it tarnishes, requires maintenance. It speaks to the ongoing labor, the unseen work, of keeping up appearances, literally and figuratively, within that time period. The polish required by the owner contrasted dramatically with the labor necessary to extract, smelt, and craft it. Where was this manufactured and by whom? Editor: I see what you mean. It shifts the focus from the surface elegance to the unseen production processes. Knowing more about the maker and their environment makes me see the beauty differently, recognizing both the artistry and labor. Curator: Precisely. Considering art as a product of material circumstances, labor, and consumption changes everything. It bridges the gap between high art and the more mundane aspects of existence, shedding light on both the object and the structures that created and maintained it. Editor: This perspective adds layers to what initially appeared to be just a simple brass candlestick! I will definitely ask more about materiality from now on. Curator: That's the power of a materialist approach – always consider the labor involved!