George II Antique Silver Candlesticks, London 1736.

Object Description

A magnificent pair of heavy cast candlesticks with super quality decoration overall. The broad, square shaped bases have a central circular well, each of the four corners being applied with a rococo cartouche; two containing a coat of arms, the remaining two with the mask of a woman with a headdress and a man with a moustache and turban. The columns are skilfully decorated with face masks and shell corners.

Total weight 1,764g, 56.7 troy oz.
Height 22.2cm, 8.74ins. Width of base 14.5cm, 5.7ins.
London 1736.
Maker Peter Archambo.
Sterling silver.

Marks. Stamped below each candlestick base with a full set of English silver hallmarks, the sconces with lion passant. All fully matching.

Maker: Peter Archambo

Son of a Huguenot (Archambaud), Peter Archambo was apprenticed to Huguenot maker Jacob Margas 1710, free of the Butchers Company 1720. First mark (Britannia) entered as largeworker 1721. Second mark (Sterling) 1722. 3rd mark 1739. Peter married Elizabeth Trube in 1722-23, his son Peter II was born in 1724. Died c.1767.

Archambo is considered an important maker of the period and worked extensively for George Booth, 2nd Earl of Warrington. His works include a remarkable wine urn 1728, a wine cistern 1729, and much dinner plate, salvers, sauceboats and baskets. Archambo is credited (alongside other distinguished compatriots) with helping to introduce the rococo style into England. His work is described as French in influence.

Archambo’s son Peter Archambo II, apprenticed to Paul de Lamerie 1738, turned over to his father same day, free 1747. Mark entered in partnership with his cousin Peter Meure as largeworkers 1750. Died 1768.

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Object Literature

Few domestic antique 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.

Object Condition

Both candlesticks are in very good condition with minor wear consistent with age. Slight surface pitting.

Object Details