Kandelaar 1789 - 1791

This candlestick was made by Cornelis Knuysting, sometime in the 18th century, out of solid silver. The design includes careful chasing and engraving of decorative details, and the fluted stem has been made with a technique called “spinning,” using a lathe. This would have been quite time-consuming and required skilled labor. The candleholder is quite heavy for its size, reflecting the cost of the material. The shape of the candlestick references classical architecture, and has a beaded edge. These refined details speak to the wealth of the original owner. Silver objects like this would have served not only a practical function, but also as symbols of status and taste. By focusing on how this object was made, we can see how design, craft, and social class are deeply intertwined.