Japan, Pair Of Large Japanese Shokudai Candlesticks In Black Lacquer – Meiji Period

Japan, Meiji period, late 19th century.

A pair of large Japanese shokudai candlesticks made of black lacquered wood, accompanied by their removable hexagonal lampshades made of lacquered wood and paper.

Each candlestick rests on a wide, domed circular base. A slender shaft, also unadorned, rises from the center of the base. Only a circular metal band marks the point where the shaft begins.

The upper section features a large metal cup bearing the set’s only decoration. It is engraved with scrollwork and plant motifs around the central spike designed to hold the candle.

The hexagonal lampshades consist of a black-lacquered wooden frame and cream-colored paper panels. They attach to the cups and are fully removable. The pair can thus be displayed with its lampshades or as two large candlesticks, revealing the engraved cups.

Signs of wear and age are visible on the lacquer, metal, and paper, consistent with the set’s age.

Candleholders: H. 56 cm; base diameter 26 cm, excluding the spike. Lampshades: H. 32 cm; W. 29 cm; D. 25 cm. Total height: 87 cm.
Can be electrified