Pair of Sheffield Plated Corinthian Column Candlesticks Attributed to Elkington

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Pair of Sheffield Plated Corinthian Column Candlesticks Attributed to Elkington & Co., England, Circa 1880

This pair of Sheffield-plated Corinthian … Read more Pair of Sheffield Plated Corinthian Column Candlesticks Attributed to Elkington & Co., England, Circa 1880

This pair of Sheffield-plated Corinthian column candlesticks, attributed to Elkington & Co., exemplifies the exceptional quality of late Victorian English silver plate at its finest. Inspired by Classical Greek architecture, each candlestick is modeled as a fluted Corinthian column rising from a stepped square plinth enriched with finely cast beaded borders and surmounted by crisply chased acanthus capitals beneath removable applied beaded bobeches. While unmarked, the sophisticated construction, precision of casting, and luxurious finish are entirely consistent with the work produced by Elkington & Co. or another of Sheffield's premier firms such as James Dixon & Sons during the final quarter of the nineteenth century.

The Corinthian Order, the most ornate of the three principal Classical orders, was revived throughout the Georgian and Victorian periods as a symbol of refinement, permanence, and architectural grandeur. Here, the deeply sculpted acanthus capitals contrast beautifully with the restrained fluted shafts and bold stepped bases, creating a design of remarkable balance and monumentality. The crisp beadwork framing both the bases and bobeches further reflects the neoclassical taste that dominated the finest English domestic silver and silver plate of the era.

One of the most striking qualities of this pair is the extraordinary brilliance of the original Sheffield plate. The silvered finish remains exceptionally rich and reflective, reading almost as solid sterling silver rather than electroplate. This luminous surface is characteristic of the finest Victorian production, where generous deposits of silver and meticulous polishing allowed luxury plated wares to rival their sterling counterparts in both appearance and prestige.

Measuring 5.75 inches square by 12.75 inches high, these candlesticks possess substantial weight and excellent proportions, making them equally suitable for a formal dining table, library, or mantelpiece.

Condition is very good overall with a warm, authentic patina acquired over more than a century of careful use. There are scattered areas of light wear and minor rubbing to the plating, consistent with age, which only enhance their character without detracting from their impressive presentation. Their untouched surface preserves the integrity and elegance expected of distinguished nineteenth-century English Sheffield plate. See less