Date: 1752
Maker: John Café
Country: England
Stock: 9421
An unusual pair of antique silver candle holders with a 6 shell base and detachable sconces. Very attractive design and heavy cast silver. Hand engraved to each foot and nozzle is the crest of a winged animal over a crown (worn).
Weight 1072 grams, 34.4 troy ounces.
Height 22cm. Base 13.4cm.
London 1752.
Maker James Gould.
Sterling silver.
Marks. Both sticks are stamped underneath and have matching date and maker, the sconces have the lion mark, the nozzles are unmarked.
Literature: Cast candlesticks started to appear circa 1685, these are much heavier in weight and capable of withstanding greater wear. The first loaded candlesticks appeared circa 1765 and are made of sheet, and not cast.
John Café, London silversmith, apprenticed to James Gould 1730, free 1740. 1st mark, largeworker, 1740. 2nd mark 1742. Took his brother William Cafe as apprentice 1742. Livery 1746. John died c.1757 and his apprentices Thomas Hannam and John Perry were turned over to William Cafe. Both William and John were known for their cast candlesticks.
The candlesticks are in very condition. The engravings show signs of wear.