This impressive garniture is comprised of three proper pairs and one single candelabra, though the set of seven is remarkably homogeneous and constitutes, in its entirety, a striking ensemble. The candelabra are wrought from fine, pure silver in the Empire style—indeed, each was produced when the Empire period was at its zenith. The quality of the craftsmanship throughout is superb.
Each candelabrum is raised on a circular foot, above which sits a cylindrical pedestal decorated with applied Classical female figures, each portrayed in profile as if lifted from a relief on an Athenian temple. Above, each candelabrum features a columnar shaft with applied acanthus leaf decoration to the capital and base—some columns are fluted, while others are smooth.
The head of each candelabrum differs, though all feature the same superb scrolled foliate branch structure. One candelabrum—the single of the set—features a female Caryatid type figure supporting a central candleholder, around which spring three scrolled flanking branches. A remarkably similar pair, featuring male Atlantid type figures, complement this single piece. Another pair features four light branches, while the final pair features three.
Two pairs and the single candelabra are by Wilhelm Conrad Hessenberg of Frankfurt, while the final pair is by Hans Gottfried Dellevie of Hamburg. The candelabra are fully hallmarked and stamp with sharp, distinct maker’s marks.
Largest: Height 66.5cm, diameter 30cm
Smallest: Height 51cm, width 28cm, depth 14cm