Volkstedt R. Eckert & Co. Allegorical Porcelain Candlesticks C.1895

A decorative pair of German porcelain figural candlesticks produced by Volkstedt R. Eckert & Co. around 1895. The pair combines allegorical modelling, elaborate applied flowers and vividly painted fantasy elements characteristic of fine late 19th-century Thüringen porcelain.

The female figure represents Summer or Harvest and follows the iconography of Ceres, holding wheat, fruit and a torch beside a vividly painted dragon in strong green and purple enamels. The dragon is not merely decorative: it appears to echo the older European tradition in which Ceres is associated with dragons, especially in scenes of her dragon-drawn chariot associated with grain and agriculture.

The male figure represents Autumn as a Bacchanalian youth with vine leaves, grapes and a pine cone, reinforced by the wine vessel and fur wrap at his feet. The loosely draped fur wrap, partial nudity and classical wine vessel reinforce the association with Bacchus, wine and the autumn harvest.

Both figures stand beside flower-encrusted stems supporting rococo-style candle sockets painted in soft pink and pale green with gilt highlights. The delicate pastel palette, elaborate applied flowers and lively rococo revival modelling reflect the highly decorative character associated with late 19th-century Thüringen porcelain.

The undersides bear the underglaze blue crossed-swords type mark corresponding to the R. Eckert & Co. period.

The pair has particularly strong decorative appeal due to the unusual iconography, matched composition and vividly painted dragon, which becomes a major visual focal point within the Summer allegory.

Dimensions:
Female figure:
Height 21.4 cm
Width 10.5 cm
Depth 7 cm
Weight 381 g

Male figure:
Height 21.4 cm
Width 10.3 cm
Depth 7.5 cm
Weight 375 g

Condition:
Female figure: the tip of the torch formerly held in the left hand is missing. In otherwise excellent antique condition, with the vividly painted dragon surviving particularly well.

Male figure: a small chip to one flower petal. In otherwise excellent antique condition.

Please study the accompanying photographs carefully as they form an integral part of this description. If you have any questions, we will be happy to answer them. The item will be shipped with full tracking and insurance.