Victorian Brass Candlesticks with Hand-Carved Shell Cameos – A Pair
A truly charming and unusual pair of Victorian brass candlesticks, beautifully decorated with intricate engraving and inset with delicate, hand-carved shell cameos.
Dating to the Victorian period (1837–1901), these elegant candlesticks feature slender, turned brass stems, traditional candle sconces and beautifully proportioned circular bases.
What makes this pair particularly special is the exquisite decoration surrounding each base. Elaborate engraved scrolling foliage and ornamental detailing provide a wonderful backdrop to the oval shell cameos, each depicting a classical profile or figure in relief.
The combination of richly coloured brass, fine engraving and delicate shell carving creates a particularly decorative and romantic appearance, reflecting the Victorian fascination with classical antiquity and the art of cameo carving.
The brass has developed a beautiful, mellow golden patina, with gentle signs of age and use that add to the character and authenticity of these lovely antique pieces.
Perfect for dressing a country house dining table, mantelpiece or sideboard, these candlesticks would look particularly beautiful with traditional ivory-coloured taper candles.
Period: Victorian, 19th century
Material: Brass with inset carved shell cameos
Decoration: Engraved scrollwork and classical cameo portraits
Condition: Lovely antique condition with age-related wear, surface marks and a naturally aged brass patina, consistent with their age and use
Sold as: A matching pair
Measure: Height 20cm Diameter of base 10cm
A wonderfully decorative and rather unusual pair of Victorian candlesticks, combining the elegance of antique brass with the timeless beauty of carved shell cameos.
Heritage House – History in Your Home.
