Large Bold Wooden Candlestick 

18th century. European or American.

Lathe-turned from a hardwood, this candlestick has a rich darkly patinated complex surface (along with remnants of wax drippings). Baluster turned column above a deeply-welled bun-shaped base for collecting melted wax.

Appears to have been turned in two parts, then joined by glue at a very tight seam just above the well, with most likely a round extension from the top extending into the lower section to fit into the circular hole. Turning in two parts makes sense as it would have been very difficult to turn the well from one piece of wood with the column “in the way”.

The form of the candlestick partially emulates a European form, typically in pewter, yet those European candlesticks did not have a baluster column, rather incorporated an acorn, so this candlestick could have been made in America by an old-world maker not limited by European guild designs.

A weighty candlestick, standing 9 inches tall with a 5 5/8 inch diameter base. A brass capstan candlestick shown for size comparison. Excellent structural condition.