Showrooms

Matching Pair of Korean Brass Candlesticks with Shields and Snuffers Joseon

Offered by: Tishu

Description
A pair of tall matching candlesticks fashioned out of heavy solid brass from Korea circa 1900s (end of Joseon Dynasty). The candlestick consists of three sections: a large base tray with a center tube where the upper section is inserted. The upper section is made of a candle holder with a spike, a round wind shield/reflector and the hanging hook, and finally there is the bell-shape snuffer hanging gracefully above the candle. All joints are rotatable so that the candles could be easily positioned. Uniquely Korean in design, these tall devices were made to hold large candles and would be the main light sources before the arrival of electricity. Both functional and ornamental, the round plate behind the candle holder is decorated with butterfly reliefs and has tiny pinholes, serving both as reflector and wind shield. The Chinese Hanja character that forms part of the frame read "Shou", meaning "Longevity". The base trays were engraved in scrolling clouds and peony blossom designs.
The construction and design help to date the piece to early 20th century toward the end of Joseon to the Korean Empire period. It is great to have a matching pair together. Tall, heavy and substantial, they would make a conversational piece for any style of interior during guest entertaining.
Similar candlesticks are in the collection of many museums across the globe. See item no 1905,1115.4 in the British Musuem; Relic Number 001137 in the National Folk Musuem of Korea; Accession number

More Information

Origin:	South Korea
Period:	1900-1919
Materials:	brass
Condition:	Good. Good antique condition, intact, brass surface shows an aged mellow patina. some verdigris spots on the trays.
Creation Date:	1900s
Number of Pieces:	2-3
Styles / Movements:	Asian, Traditional
Patterns:	Animal/Insects, Asian/Oriental
Incollect Reference #:	788387

Dimensions

H.	34 in;	Diam.	10.75 in;
H.	86.36 cm;	Diam.	27.31 cm;

Message from Seller:

Tishu, based in Atlanta, GA, offers a diverse collection ranging from Neolithic art to 20th-century collectibles, with a focus on Mid-century design, Japanese and Korean art, Asian textiles, and Contemporary Aboriginal art. Driven by a passion for timeless beauty, the gallery is open by appointment only and offers works that span 5,000 years of history. Reach them at 305-400-0561 or tishu@tishugallery.com.