Two-piece Candlestick, one of a pair, early 17th century
Unknown artist, Chinaexpand_more
Bronzeexpand_more
Gift of Ruth and Bruce Daytonexpand_more 2003.64.1a,b
On View in Gallery 201expand_more
This rare set of large, bronze candlesticks is cast at its base in the form of foreigners kneeling in mirror image on stepped stands. During the Ming dynasty (1368-1644), foreigners were ocassionally depicted in the decorative arts. They were typically shown with curling hair, bushy brows over bulging eyes, large noses, and moustaches like those shown here. They wear Chinese style robes with raised chest medallions, aprons, and boots. Foliate drip pans with baluster-shaped sockets cast with a coiled dragon are balanced on the men's heads. The separate candleholders of flared cylindrical form are each decorated with a four-clawed scaly dragon in high relief chasing a flaming pearl among the clouds. Each of the four components is cast with a four-character inscription reading "the seal of Tung Wen-te." Paired candlesticks typically flanked incense burners on most types of altar tables during the Ming and Ch'ing dynasties (1368-1911).
Details
- Title
- Two-piece Candlestick, one of a pair
- Role
- Artist
- Accession Number
- 2003.64.1a,b
- Curator Approved
This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.
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