Porcelain with white glaze, polychrome paint and gold accents
Germany, circa 1900
Meissen Porcelain Manufactory, established in 1710
Underglaze blue crossed swords mark (1860-1924)
Two-piece candlestick with seven flames
Lush decor with three putti playing music
Total height: 58 cm
Marvelous Meissen candelabrum with abundant three dimensional decor

The present Meissen candlestick dates to around 1900 and is characterized by its imaginative form and its rich sculptural decoration. The chandelier consists of two parts and is fitted with seven flames. The baluster stand rises on a rocaille base with three voluted feet. The stand is adorned with applied flowers and three sculpted putti playing music. In addition, it is embellished with finely painted butterflies and flowers. The seven lights top piece shows sculpted flowers, fruits and leaves decorations. The curved central flame is especially eye-catching.

The candlestick bears the underglaze blue crossed swords mark (1860-1924) to the underside. It is of first choice and overall in good condition. One leaf at one spout has broken off and another leaf has been restored. The stand shows several small losses. The total height of the candlestick is 58 cm.

Meissen

Porcelain has been known in Europe since the 13th Century, but always had to be imported from China. Thus it was mostly of lower quality – the Chinese rarely gave their best ware to the foreigners – and extremely expensive. Europeans tried to copy Chinese the Chinese porcelain for centuries but only in 1708 managed to create real porcelain – in Meissen. The manufacturer’s brand, the crossed swords in blue, has been in use since 1722 and is still a guarantee for the high quality of the porcelain. Meissen celebrated its 300 years of existence in 2008. Quality has always been the number one criteria for Meissen and they go as far as having their own mine to win the needed kaolin, also known as china clay, for the production. It takes several years to reach the degree of a “master painter” in Meissen but judging by the quality of the painting, it is definitely worth it. (cko)

Shipping costs excl. statutory VAT and plus 2,5% (+VAT) shipping insurance.