Overview
A striking Neoclassical-style candlestick featuring a heavy cast-metal base modeled after a silk passementerie tassel, supporting a vibrant red marbled column.
Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
A striking Neoclassical-style candlestick featuring a heavy cast-metal base modeled after a silk passementerie tassel, supporting a vibrant red marbled column.
Story
The tassel has been a symbol of luxury and status since the 16th century, but this piece reimagines that textile history in solid, permanent metal.
Maker / Origin
While this specific piece appears unsigned, it is highly consistent with the work of high-end decorative firms like Maitland-Smith or Labarge, who specialized in 'trompe l'oeil' (fool the eye) objects.
Condition & Value
The brass shows a lovely, authentic patina that shouldn't be over-polished. The red stem appears to be in excellent condition without the typical chips found in faux-finishes. Having the pair intact is the most important factor for its market value. Value is significantly higher for a matched pair.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Regional auction
· Jun 2024Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
$1,280
Dealer archive
· Mar 2024Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
$1,450
Marketplace sale
· Jan 2024Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
$980
Estate platform
· Oct 2023Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
$1,150
Auction result
· Aug 2023Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.
$1,375