American Art Deco Sterling Silver Weighted Low Candlestick
Candelabra/Candlestick (Low-profile/Console type) · Unknown American Manufacturer (Consistent with Gorham or International Silver Co. styles)
Pattern: Hexagonal Art Deco Geometric Pattern
Type
Candelabra/Candlestick (Low-profile/Console type)
Maker
Unknown American Manufacturer (Consistent with Gorham or International Silver Co. styles)
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) with weighted/filled base (pitch, cement, or lead-filled)
Dimensions
Estimated height: 3-4 inches; Diameter: 3.5 inches; Weight: Significant due to internal filling
Description
A classic American sterling silver low candlestick featuring a bold hexagonal base and a flared bobeche. This piece exemplifies the Art Deco movement's shift toward architectural forms and clean, unadorned light-reflective surfaces.
Key Features
Stepped hexagonal base, low center of gravity, and high-shine sterling shell
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) with weighted/filled base (pitch, cement, or lead-filled)
Finish & Decoration
Mirror-polished surface with stepped geometric facets and minimal ornamentation
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely stamped 'Sterling', 'Weighted', or 'Reinforced with Cement' on the underside
Construction Details
Spun silver shell over a weighted core with a machine-stamped hexagonal base
Functional Features
Single candle cup with flared drip rim and a broad stable base for table console use
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - No handles; sleek columnar stem for finger grip if necessary
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-pressed and spun construction; highlights the efficiency of American industrial silver production.
Authentication Indicators
Geometric design consistency and visible 'stepped' construction typical of mid-20th century American silver
Origin & Manufacturing
United States; likely a high-volume manufacturing center like Providence or Meriden
Era & Period
Art Deco (1920-1940) characterized by machine-age geometry
Age Estimate
Circa 1930-1950 based on the stepped hexagonal design
Cultural Significance
Iconic of the American middle-class move toward Modernist aesthetics during the mid-20th century.
Condition Notes
Very Good; light surface scratches and moderate tarnish in the crevices. No visible dents in the thin silver shell.
Value Estimate
$40 - $75 per candlestick depending on the manufacturer mark and weight of the silver shell.
Care & Maintenance
Hand polish with a soft cotton cloth and silver cream; do not submerge in water as moisture can degrade the inner weight.
Similar Pieces
Gorham 'Puritan' or Wallace 'Grand Baroque' variants; differences lie in the lack of scrollwork here.
Interesting Facts
Low candlesticks like this were popularized for 'Console Sets' intended to sit alongside a center bowl without obstructing views at the dining table.