Monumental 19" Antique Brass Synagogue Shabbat Candlesticks - 19th Century

Details

Description

Curator's Note: These towering, 19-inch candlesticks carry the gravitas of their original purpose as communal Shabbat lighting. With their substantial … Read more Curator's Note: These towering, 19-inch candlesticks carry the gravitas of their original purpose as communal Shabbat lighting. With their substantial weight and architectural geometry—highlighted by a sharp hexagonal knop and elegant ribbed pedestal—these pieces possess an undeniable presence. Beyond their ritual significance, they offer a striking sculptural quality that anchors a formal space. The deep, original "as-found" patina provides a warmth and historical texture that modern decor lacks, making them an exceptional acquisition for a collector of fine Judaica or the discerning interior designer seeking pieces with profound provenance from the J. Greenstein collection.
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These impressive, heavy-gauge brass candlesticks exhibit a classic stepped, multi-ringed base that transitions into a tapered, ribbed pedestal. The center of the stem features a distinctive hexagonal knop, a design element often associated with architectural stability and decorative refinement in 19th-century metalwork. A wide, removable drip pan (or bobeche) with a decorative scalloped edge protects the lower stem from wax drips. The construction includes threaded components, suggesting professional casting and assembly. The brass maintains a rich, unpolished, "as-found" patina, highlighting the authentic character of the metal.

Origin: European, utilized in synagogue and communal settings.

Age: Mid-to-late 19th Century.

Dimensions: 19.25" Height, 6.75" Base Diameter.
Weight: Piece 1: 6 lbs 14.6 oz; Piece 2: 6 lbs 5.9 oz.

Provenance: Acquired from the J. Greenstein & Co. auction house.

Reference
Book: The Jewish Heritage in American Folk Art by Norman L. Kleeblatt and Gerard C. Wertkin.
Page Reference: 82 (discussing the use of monumental brass in synagogue ritual objects). See less