Description

A fine pair of antique sterling silver candlesticks of plain design with faceted columns and shaped bases. Heavy cast silver.

Weight 793 grams, 25.4 troy ounces.
Height 17cms. Bases 11.5cm square.
London 1739.
Gabriel Sleath.
Sterling silver.

Marks. Stamped underneath centrally with English silver hallmarks for 1739. An interesting point is that one candlestick has been struck at the assay office with the leopard’s head twice instead of the lion mark.

Literature. Few domestic silver candlesticks still exist before the reign of Charles II and 17th century examples are usually made from sheet silver and are light in weight. Cast candlesticks started to appear circa 1685 and are much heavier in weight. The first loaded candlesticks appeared circa 1765 and are made of sheet silver, and not cast. Although many early candlesticks had fixed nozzles the first cast candlesticks were made without these useful drip pans. During the period c.1735-50 candlesticks with detachable nozzles appeared which facilitated much easier cleaning.

Both of these 18th century candle holders are in very good condition. Heavy gauge silver. Excellent patina. With minor wear consistent with age.

Maker: Gabriel Sleath

Gabriel Sleath (1674 - 1756), London goldsmith, apprenticed to Thomas Cooper 1691, free 1701. Thomas appears to have worked for Isaac Dighton for some time before he entered his first mark in 1707. An outspoken critic of Huguenot goldsmiths working in England he signed the petitions in 1711 and 1716. Livery 1712. 2nd (sterling) mark 1720. 3rd mark 1739. 4th mark, in partnership with Francis Crump his former apprentice, 1753. Sleath's output includes an extensive production of hollow wares such as coffee pots, tankards, cups and covers. His major works include the wine cisterns in the Hermitage Museum, St Petersburg, and that of the Grocers Company.

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