Organic 70s Brutalist Clay Sculpted Earth-Tone and Blue 7 Sprocket Candelabra Style Menorah

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A unique hand sculpted and incised clay candelabra with 7-stick capacity used as either a Modernist menorah in the brutalist … Read more A unique hand sculpted and incised clay candelabra with 7-stick capacity used as either a Modernist menorah in the brutalist style or a less symbolic candelabra. Its earth-toned terra cotta body informs the beholder that the object at hand is a growing bouquet of flower like rosettes spring forth from the earth. The pedal like objects that top each of the stems are indeed most likely intended for use as bobeches for the wax that leaks from the lit candle when inserted in the 7 candle pits The semi-anamorphic qualities hint that there is more to this bunch of flowers than is obvious. Also somewhat mysterious is the artists use of a glossy parcel glaze in a royal blue color that cascades in all directions from the highest of the candle holders. So why blue? In the Hebrew tradition, the sapphire tone color of blue has symbolic reference to the throne of g_d and also signifies the color of the sapphire-like sky and the "pavement of sapphire" seen in visions of g-d's heavenly throne. In mystical tradition, blue signifies Gevurah (strength or restraint), a qualities of g-d which are particularly intriguing. However especially during the Hanukkah celebration; white is used as a contrasting color and yet it is absent in this piece. So is this blue glaze meant to represent transcendence and divinity and carry a deeper and intentional meaning? Or is it more happenstance and unintentional drip glaze adn blue was used because it was handy? We will likely never know for sure, but we are beguiled and obsessed by its mystery and the motivation of its unknown creator.

Although, this one-of-a-kind sculpture was possibly intended for use as a holiday decoration during the observant days of the Hanukkah in the Judaic tradition, But then again if it were a 9 sprocket "Hanukkiah" then its normally displayed during the celebrated holy days in winter rather than 7 candled menorah also referred to a Temple Menorah it is a piece that can and should be displayed year-round. but in a temple not at home. It's rather confusing to a interested Goyim like me. It has raw character traits that continuously invite further inspection. Each re-examination is rewarded with new insight. No signature is discoverable. (circa 1970s - country of original not identified but attributed to the USA. by default) See less