Chamber candlestick or taperstick 1828 - 1829

This small silver chamber candlestick was made by Charles Lias, likely in England, in the early 19th century. Before widespread electrification, portable lighting was a necessity, and this elegant object speaks to the rituals of daily life in a world lit by candlelight. The candlestick is more than a functional item; its design reflects the social and economic structures of its time. The use of silver indicates a level of affluence, while the decorative elements suggest an appreciation for refined craftsmanship, an aesthetic championed by institutions such as the Royal Academy. Objects like this also highlight the contrast between the lives of the wealthy, who could afford such luxuries, and the working classes, for whom even basic lighting might have been a significant expense. Understanding an object like this requires us to look beyond its aesthetic qualities and consider its place within a broader social and economic context. Auction catalogues, probate records, and household inventories can provide valuable insights into the ownership and use of such items, helping us to reconstruct the world in which they were made and used.