English Sterling Silver Neo-Classical Candlesticks, John Carter, London, 1773/74

Featuring swags, Bacchanalian masks, and stop-fluted columns, these fine Corinthian column candlesticks were made by the important London silversmith John Carter.  Although weighted, they are made of thick, heavy-gauge silver (atypical of the form) and are significantly better quality than most.

In the neo-classical style popularized by architect Robert Adam, each candlestick base has swags that drape from Bacchanalian masks on three sides and an oval cartouche with an engraved family crest (a rampant demi-lion) on the fourth.  Horizontal bands of beading encompass the bottom and top edge of the bases and are also found on the original shaped bobeches.  Both capitals are chased and pierced.

They measure 12.75 inches tall and the bases are 5 inches wide.  Each candlestick is fully marked along the base and each bobeches is marked with the maker's mark and lion passant.  They are in very good/ excellent crisp antique condition, although one has a slight list.