Candlestick (one of a pair) 1705 - 1725

This is a silver candlestick, one of a pair, created sometime between 1650 and 1750 by the silversmith known only as Master "RW". In the 17th and 18th centuries, objects like these were more than just functional. They reflected the owner's wealth and social standing. During this time, silver wasn’t just a material, it was a statement. Silver was a global commodity tied to colonial histories, reflecting the exploitation of resources and labor in the Americas. Owning silver objects was a way for the elite to visibly consume the benefits of this system. As such, these candlesticks speak to the complex relationship between artistry, wealth, and the often-unacknowledged labor that made such luxury possible. These candlesticks remind us to consider the stories behind the objects we encounter and the complex histories they embody.