One of a Pair of Candlesticks

About this artwork

Research in Progress

Art Historical Context

This elegant pair of candlesticks represented here by one example, hails from the workshop of Richard Hodd &, a London-based metalworker active from 1872 to 1880. Crafted in 1878 during the height of the Victorian era, it reflects the period's fascination with refined domestic objects that blended functionality with ornamental flair. As electricity was still a novelty, candlesticks like these illuminated middle- and upper-class homes,izing hospitality and status. Classified as metalwork, this piece exemplifies the skilled craftsmanship of British makers who often worked in silver, brass, or electroplated materials to create durable, gleaming forms. Though the exact medium awaits further research—denoted as "Research in Progress"—its presence in the Smithsonian American Art Museum underscores its artistic merit. Bequeathed by Mrs. John Innes Kane, it entered the collection as a testament to transatlantic tastes, bridging British design with American appreciation. These candlesticks invite us to ponder the daily rituals of 19th-century life, where light and metalwork crafted moments of warmth and elegance. Stay tuned for updates as curatorial research unveils more about its techniques and story!