Candlestick (one of a pair)

Unknown

ca. 1775–90 · Pale blue chalcedony, gilt bronze · European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

Since ancient times, cut and polished chalcedony was very much sought after and used for jewelry and precious objects. The semi-transparent stone was believed to have apotropaic powers. It is possible that the facetted pieces used in the present examples have been re-cut from older objects to create these stylish neo-classical objects.

Artist

Unknown

Date

ca. 1775–90

Medium

Pale blue chalcedony, gilt bronze

Culture

Probably French

Department

European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

Credit line

Bequest of Mrs. Charles Wrightsman, 2019