Antique 18th Century Carved Baroque Candlesticks Silvered Giltwood Circa 1750

Antique 18th Century Carved Baroque Candlesticks Silvered Gesso & Giltwood Circa 1750

A magnificent large pair of18th century carved wooden Baroque church altar candlesticks circa 1750, the wooden candlesticks gesso and gilding with the Crossed Arms of Jesus & Saint Francis, the detail in the form of a Crucifix, Christ's Arm and Saint Francis's Arm, a universal symbol of the Franciscans, Swags and scrolls, two arm branch candle holders with a central taller holder to the main body.

Background on the Franciscans:
The Franciscans are a group of related Mendicant religious orders within the Catholic Church , founded in 1209 by Saint Francis of Assisi. These orders include the Order of Friars Minor, theOrder of Saint Clare, and the Third Order of Saint Francis . They adhere to the teachings and spiritual disciplines of the founder and of his main associates and followers, such as Clare of Assisi, Anthony of Padua, and Elizabeth of Hungary, among many others.

Francis began preaching around 1207 and traveled to Rome to seek approval from Pope Innocent III in 1209 to form a new religious order. The original Rule of Saint Francis is approved by the Pope disallowed ownership of property, requiring members of the order to beg for food while preaching. The austerity was meant to emulate the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. Franciscans traveled and preached in the streets, while boarding in church properties.

Saint Clare, under Francis's guidance, founded the Poor Clares (Order of Saint Clare) in 1212, which remains a Second Order of the Franciscans. The extreme poverty required of members was relaxed in the final revision of the Rule in 1223. The degree of observance required of members remained a major source of conflict within the order, resulting in numerous secessions.

When these Candlesticks were made;

Henry II, the first 'Plantagenet' king, accedes to the throne. The accession and coronation of Henry II took place on the same day. He was not only king of England, but also ruled over most of Wales, Normandy, Anjou, Gascony and other parts of France (acquired through his marriage to Eleanor of Aquitaine).

Condition Report: As to be expected there is age related wear, minor rubbing to some of the gilding to the lower sections, the candlesticks stand perfectly and are solid, wonderful patina.

Dimensions:
Height: 48” inches / 122cm
Width: 14.5” inches / 37cm
Depth: 9.5” inches / 24cm

Delivery:
Free delivery is offered to England & Wales