HOT ! PAIR OF RARE VICTORIAN SWORD-HILT CANDLESTICKS

There are a very rare fourth quarter 19th century pair of Victorian sword-hilt candlesticks. They have leaf-molded sockets set into horn drip pans, the horn-mounted standards with bronze acorn mounts, the lower edge with gilt-bronze stag-form heads and a lobed hilt guard molded with images of a boar\'s head, the steel \"blade\" set into a molded bronze base.

h. 11-1/4\", W. 4-1/2\", d. 4-1/2\"

wear consistent with age 

Let\'s dive into the world of antique Victorian sword-hilt candlesticks! To really understand them, we need to look at the Victorian Era (roughly 1837-1901) and the prevailing tastes, the craftsmanship involved, and how such unique objects might have come into being.

The Victorian Era: A Time of Eclecticism and Sentimentality

The Victorian era was a period of significant social, industrial, and artistic change. In terms of decorative arts, it was characterized by: ~

• Revivalism: A fascination with historical styles like Gothic, Renaissance, and Neoclassical, often blended together in eclectic ways.


• Ornamentation: A general appreciation for elaborate details, intricate patterns, and a sense of fullness in design. \"More is more\" could often be the motto.


• Sentimentality and Novelty: A fondness for objects that held personal meaning or were unique and eye-catching. Military memorabilia, with its connotations of heroism and national pride, held a certain romantic appeal.


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Antique Victorian sword-hilt candlesticks represent a fascinating intersection of Victorian aesthetics, skilled metalworking, and a potential appreciation for military history or unique decorative objects. They stand as intriguing examples of how craftsmanship could transform an object of martial purpose into one of domestic elegance and conversation. Finding a genuine pair today is a testament to their enduring appeal and rarity.