Kandelaar 1789 - 1790

Editor: So, this is Hendrik Boshart’s “Kandelaar,” a silver candlestick made around 1789 or 1790. It's sleek, really gleaming, almost austere despite the baroque influences. It’s so simple, but very striking because of the shininess. What do you make of this, especially compared to other decorative arts of the era? Curator: You know, it does have this fascinating balance, doesn’t it? It reflects a changing tide, even amidst that decorative impulse of the baroque. The candlestick isn’t just about embellishment; it's almost a conversation with light itself, how it catches on the silver. And it brings up a thought – weren't these objects witnesses to conversations, secrets whispered in candlelight? Editor: That's a beautiful way to put it! I hadn’t thought of it as a "witness" before. Do you think the artist consciously aimed for that sleek, reflective surface, or was it just a product of the silversmithing? Curator: Oh, consciously, definitely. Silver was luxury and light combined; possessing the capability to make or break an artist. Do you see how that small chain delicately drapes, breaking the austerity? What does that detail tell you? Editor: It softens the whole thing, I guess! Makes it feel more human, less like some imposing monument. Like a delicate little imperfection. Curator: Exactly. Maybe a wink, a fleeting reminder that even elegance allows for whimsy. These were often passed down through generations, right? Think about the stories embedded in the gleam, and then we realise that we bring our stories into these artefacts. Editor: This makes me want to look closer at all the little details and imperfections. Thanks so much for making me see more than just shininess today! Curator: My pleasure! Keep noticing the little imperfections – they usually speak the loudest.