William & Mary Antique Silver Candlesticks, London 1689/90

Object Description

A rare pair of early antique silver candlesticks dating from the late 1600’s. Of unusual form, these fine candlesticks stand on broad flaring octagonal bases, the fixed octagonal sconces over tapering fluted stems. Hand engraved below with owner’s initials “P over TE”. There are faint traces of an armorial within plumage feathers to both.

Weight 725g, 23 troy oz.
Height 20.5cm. Width of base 10.5cm.
London 1689 and 1690.
Maker Thomas Ash.
Sterling silver.

Marks. Stamped with a full set of English silver hallmarks on the lower columns. The maker’s mark “TA between pellets” is listed in Jackson’s Silver & Gold Marks, page 136 (found on two altar candlesticks and a pair of octagonal candlesticks and alms plate). Attributed by David M Mitchell – Silversmiths in Elizabethan and Stuart London, page 504 as probably by Thomas Ash.

Maker: Thomas Ash

Thomas Ash, London silversmith, worked in the late 17th century. Maker’s mark attributed in David Mitchell’s “Silversmiths in Elizabethan and Stuart London”, page 504.

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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

Very good, particularly considering their age. A few very minor dinks on the columns. Fully stamped underneath with English silver hallmarks. There is a small restoration on one stick next to the hallmark.

Object Details