Studio RT Ltd

Description

We are pleased to offer for sale this very ornate and attractive pair of convertible or metamorphic 3 Sconce Candelabra in Old Sheffield Plate, with weighted bases, which can become a pair of single Candlesticks.

This type of silver-plating begun in the 1740s. Old Sheffield plate became very successful from the 1760s onwards, and plated wares were produced on a grand scale.

Old Sheffield plate, a historical technique developed in the late 18th century, involves fusing a thin layer of silver onto a base of copper, creating a durable, silver-coated metal. Renowned for its high-quality craftsmanship, it was widely used for making elegant tableware and decorative items. This method allowed for the production of silver-plated goods at a more affordable price than solid silver.

This method of plating was eventually superseded by the invention of electroplate around 1840 by Ellington & Co, replacing the production of Old Sheffield Plate.
Esch candelabrum features a central column with two reeded, sinuous arms with two lower sconces with removable drip pans, while the taller central sconce also has a removable drip pan. The drip pans mimic the square base. This whole assembly pulls out of the central base section and, if you add one of the drip pans, to the base unit, you have a single ornate candlestick. Please see the photographs.

While the candelabra would look wonderful at Christmas or on the dining table for a dinner party, for an intimate supper, the single candlesticks might suffice. For a slightly simpler effect, you can also use the candelabra without the drip pans.

Height: 11 1/4 inches 33.65cm
:
Maximum width: 12 1/2 inches - 31.75cm

Depth & size of base 4 1/2 inches - 11.45cm

Height of single candlestick: 5 1/2 inches - 14cm

Weight: 2.64kg and 2.67kg respectively.

Material: Sheffield plate - silver plate on copper

Condition: Very good. There is some bleeding, which can be seen on the photographs, primarily to the base section and the middle of the removable drip pans. This, in our opinion, only adds to their attractiveness and is often considered desirable.