Large Pair Of Carved And Gilded Church Candlesticks – 18th Century

An important pair of carved and gilded church candlesticks dating from the 18th century.

Standing at a remarkable height of 125 cm, these two candlesticks feature a particularly slender silhouette, punctuated by a succession of sculpted forms and ornamental motifs characteristic of 18th-century decorative style.

The shaft, intricately carved, alternates between stylized acanthus leaves, palmettes, scrollwork, and openwork elements. The composition rises gradually from an architecturally designed tripod base to a wide cup designed to hold the candle, which still retains its metal tip.

The carving is particularly interesting for its alternation of solid and openwork sections. The numerous projections and reliefs catch the light and bring the gilding to life, though it has now been dulled by time. This patina, with its shades of antique gold, its signs of wear, and the areas where the wood is visible, is an essential part of the piece’s overall charm.

Originally part of liturgical furnishings, these large candle holders were intended to be placed in a church or chapel, typically on either side of an altar. Their size and the richness of their carving attest to the care taken with religious decor in the 18th century, when even functional objects played a full role in the staging and solemnity of the sacred space.

Preserved as a pair—which naturally enhances their decorative appeal—they can now be displayed as architectural sculptures, placed on either side of a console table, a fireplace, or a work of art. Their vertical silhouette also allows them to fit easily into a contemporary interior, where the contrast between their antique gilding and a more minimalist decor can be particularly striking.

The antique gilding bears the wear, nuances, minor imperfections, and signs of age expected of pieces that have endured several centuries. We have deliberately preserved this patina, which contributes to their authenticity and character.