Pair of Early-Mid 20th Century Chinese Silver-Finished Brass Altar Candlesticks – Cranes & Fish

Details

Description

Exceptional matched pair of early-to-mid 20th century Chinese brass altar candlesticks, standing an impressive 20.25 inches tall and featuring elaborate … Read more Exceptional matched pair of early-to-mid 20th century Chinese brass altar candlesticks, standing an impressive 20.25 inches tall and featuring elaborate pierced and relief decoration with cranes, fish, lotus and floral motifs.

Each candlestick is constructed in multiple decorative tiers. The lower section features a pair of opposing stylized cranes surrounding an intricate pierced floral design. Above is a large scalloped drip tray, followed by a pair of opposing fish beneath lotus-inspired ornamentation. Scalloped upper candle cups retain their tall spikes.

The candlesticks are constructed of brass with a silver-tone finish. Importantly, the pair is documented in the original owners’ inventory as brass, with a recorded purchase price of 300 RMB. The metal is non-magnetic throughout, and small areas of finish wear reveal the darker brass beneath.

These display considerable detail throughout, including individually rendered fish scales, incised crane feathers, lotus and floral designs, pierced ornamentation, dimensional relief and traditional shaped pedestal bases.

The construction, hand-worked decorative details, surface character and oxidation are consistent with an older vintage pair. We believe these date approximately to the early-to-mid 20th century, although an exact date of manufacture is unknown. They were acquired by the previous owners during their travels in Asia and retained as part of a substantial collection of Chinese and Asian decorative arts.

Both candlesticks remain in very good vintage condition. There are minor areas of surface wear, oxidation, patina and scattered loss to the silver-tone finish consistent with age. Protected unfinished areas within the hollow bases exhibit substantially more oxidation and verdigris. No major breaks or significant losses are apparent. Please review all photographs closely for condition and construction details.

At over 20 inches tall, these are unusually substantial and highly decorative objects. The symmetry of the matched pair and combination of cranes, fish and botanical imagery give them tremendous presence on a mantel, console, sideboard or altar and make them particularly well suited to a collected or Asian-inspired interior.

Dimensions — Each:
20.25” H
4 5/8” W × 3.5” D at base

Material: Brass with silver-tone finish
Style: Chinese / Asian
Period: Early-to-mid 20th century
Condition: Very good vintage condition
Quantity: Matching pair

Original collection inventory documentation identifying the candlesticks as brass and recording their 300 RMB purchase price will be shown with the listing photographs See less