"jean Laughs, Jean Cries" — Candlestick, Circa 1850–80
A double-sided pewter candlestick depicting, alternately, John Laughing and John Weeping—a popular theme illustrating the contrast between joy and sadness. Voltaire popularized this theme with his essay Jean qui pleure et qui rit in 1772, inspired by the ancient philosophers Heraclitus (the weeper) and Democritus (the lapper).
Both male faces are topped with a wide hat that forms the upper part of the candlestick.
The top of the hat features a metal candle holder designed to hold the candle.
The entire piece rests on a circular, molded candlestick base. Brown patina, with signs of wear and oxidation.
Both male faces are topped with a wide hat that forms the upper part of the candlestick.
The top of the hat features a metal candle holder designed to hold the candle.
The entire piece rests on a circular, molded candlestick base. Brown patina, with signs of wear and oxidation.
80 €
Period: 19th century
Style: Napoleon 3rd
Condition: Condition of use
Material: Metal
Width: 7,5
Height: 11
Depth: 7,5
Reference (ID): 1817540
Availability: In stock
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