Antique Collection

Even though we no longer depend on candlelight for illumination, nothing graces a dining table more elegantly than a pair of silver candlesticks. Most candlesticks and candelabra were originally made in pairs or larger sets. Expect to pay more than double for a pair of candlesticks than for two single ones – even if they’re [...]

An attractive addition to any room is the occasional table. This is sometimes referred to as a tea table or wine table, standing about 750 mm high on a single pedestal with a round base. Good examples of these are not rare, but they are much in demand and therefore expensive.

The oldest silver serving dishes designed for use rather than display are simple, with moulded or gadrooned rims. Display pieces are often silver gilt, with elaborate chased and applied strapwork and lobbing. Most date from the 17th century, although similar ones continued to be made until the early l9th century, mainly for ceremonial services.

Humour, variety and joy in his skill show in the glassmaker’s novelty pieces, made to please only himself.
Troe friggers, with the occasional exception, have no useful purpose. They are one-off curiosities, made by glass-makers in their spare time to relieve the humdrum work of producing standard commercial articles over and over again.

Stands of all kinds often find uses quite different from their original purpose. A butler’s tray, for example, makes a good drinks table.
Gueridons were among the first stands. Made in various styles, they were used from the 17th ‘century for supporting candlesticks or lamps.

Few modern homes have room for a large chandelier, but a fine set of candlesticks or a graceful lamp can add a touch of elegance — at a price.
The earlier glass light fittings from the mid- 17th century were designed to hold candles – either singly or in groups – and some designs were extremely [...]