A RARE and unusual and evocative pair of Baroque wall candleholders incorporating the powerful Christian symbolism of Memento Mori. Each candleholder features an elaborately pierced, foliate backplate, richly decorated with scrolling acanthus leaves and ornamental flourishes. A gracefully curved arm projects outward, supporting a finely modelled human skull beneath a circular candle plate fitted with an iron spike. The juxtaposition of sumptuous gilded Baroque ornament and the stark image of the human skull creates a striking meditation on mortality, the transience of earthly existence and the promise of eternal life. Such imagery was particularly associated with the devotional traditions of Catholic Europe, where reminders of death formed an important part of spiritual contemplation. The pair retains an atmospheric aged surface, with traces of gilding, historic wear and losses consistent with long use. The reverse reveals the traditional carved wooden construction.

General: The overall height with the stand is 21.3 inches (54 cm). The overall dimensions of each Memento Mori candleholder are a height of 15.2 inches (38.5 cm) and depth of 9.4 inches (24 cm).

Condition: The Memento Mori is in good condition with age-related wear - with traces of gilding, historic wear and losses consistent with long use. Please see the enclosed images.