Pair of Gilt Floral Porcelain Candlesticks
Decorative art; pair of low-profile candlesticks • Likely a European or Japanese manufacture; style is reminiscent of Bavarian (Germany) or Limoges (France) porcelain houses such as Hutschenreuther or Sèvres-style makers.
Style & Movement
Neo-Rococo or Mid-Century Traditionalism; a revivalist style utilizing classic 18th-century floral motifs.
Medium & Technique
White glazed porcelain with overglaze gold transfer or hand-painted gilding; scalloped rims and molded circular forms.
Creation Period
Mid to late 20th century (circa 1950-1980)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 3-4 inches (7.6-10.2 cm) in height with a 4-inch (10.2 cm) base diameter; low-set circular format.
Subject Description
A matching pair of white porcelain candlesticks featuring a large central wild rose or peony motif in metallic gold. The flowers are flanked by gold leaves and buds, with gold banding on the sconce rim and cup.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good; the porcelain bodies appear intact without visible chips or hairline fractures.
Estimated Market Value
$40 - $80 USD for the pair
Auction Estimate
$30 - $60 USD
Provenance History
Likely held in a private domestic collection; common as giftware or part of a tabletop dining set during the mid-20th century.
Art Historical Significance
Representative of the post-WWII boom in high-quality decorative porcelain for the middle-class market, reflecting a continued taste for aristocratic European motifs.
Notable Features
Scalloped 'cabbage-leaf' style rim on the sconce; high-contrast metallic gold decoration against a stark white vitreous body.
Condition Issues
Visible thinning/rubbing of the gold gilt on the scalloped edges through handling; minor surface scratches on the white glaze.
Conservation Recommendations
Hand wash only with mild soap; avoid abrasive cleaners or silver polish which will strip the gilding. Store away from direct heat to prevent crazing.