Candlestick, One of Pair

ca. 1912

These three candlesticks, all made about the same time, demonstrate the coexistence of different styles in order to satisfy various tastes of the American consumer. The earliest one, with its elaborate curves, counter-curves, and naturalistic decoration, is a rare example of American design strongly influenced by the French Art Nouveau style (also seen in the hairbrush nearby); it would have been purchased by an adventurous consumer aware of international trends. The candlestick in the middle is in the Neoclassical style, representing the prevalent conservative taste of the time. Both of these objects now seem stylistically old-fashioned when compared to the brass one, with its strong, hard-edged geometry and lack of naturalistic decoration. While this object might appeal to many today, it was purchased by only the most forward-looking consumer at the time and was the least successful commercially.