Pair of candlesticks (part of a toilet service) 1736 - 1737

These silver candlesticks, part of a toilet service, feature stylized leaf patterns around their bases and necks, symbols that reach far back into antiquity. Consider the acanthus leaf, here abstracted but still recognizable. In ancient Greece, it adorned temples and public buildings, embodying themes of regeneration, artistic skill, and enduring life. This motif isn't merely decorative; it’s a relic of a bygone era, reborn in a new context. Now, think about the emotional resonance of candlelight. Light has always been a symbol of hope and illumination, a beacon against the darkness. These candlesticks, therefore, aren’t just functional objects; they are carriers of emotional and psychological weight. Light is a powerful force, engaging viewers on a deep, subconscious level, bringing comfort and peace. Notice how this classical motif has resurfaced, evolved, and taken on new meanings in this context, revealing a non-linear, cyclical progression.