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Year Completed
2021
Abstract
Caitlin McLean, VCU Interior Design MFA 2023, selected the Candlestick for the 2021 Colonialism And The Americas, Object Analysis Project.
Candlesticks were a physical representation of wealth and status, so it’s very likely these were regularly kept on display during meals or in the bedroom. Candles themselves were expensive - given the prosperity of the Schuylers [owners], it’s probable that these were used fairly regularly, as they could afford to maintain a supply of candles. Because they were originally made in a set of four with a snuffer stand, I believe these were made for display purposes, likely in a drawing or sitting room where the Schuylers would entertain guests. These would have been a definite status symbol for the Schuyler's - the fact that these were very large, entirely silver, and incredibly detailed, and they had four made, reveals how wealthy the family was.
Object Name
Candlestick
Function
holds candles for lighting
Material(s)
silver
Maker
Cornelius Kierstede
Place of Origin
New York, NY, US
Cultural Connections
Colonial America, Dutch
Time Period
1705
Current Location (Museum Collection)
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York
Disciplines
Interior Design
Department
VCU Arts Dept. of Interior Design
Date of Submission
12-7-2021
Keywords
Candles, Interior Design, Silver, Dutch