Twee kandelabers c. 1676 - 1680

Nicolas Robert’s design for two candelabras was etched sometime in the 17th century. The artist made use of metal plates and acid to create this print, a laborious process in which lines are bitten into the metal and then inked to produce multiple impressions. The linear quality of the print allows us to appreciate the symmetrical structure of the proposed candelabras, adorned with putti, foliage, and other classical motifs. The careful arrangements suggest the importance of balance and harmony in both design and society. Prints like this were crucial in disseminating design ideas across Europe. They provided patterns for artisans to follow, influencing the production of luxury objects and decorative arts. Robert’s print reflects the burgeoning culture of consumption and the skilled labor that fueled it. It is a reminder that even seemingly simple images can reveal complex histories of making, materials, and social exchange.