1300-1400

There are numerous ways to identify socketed Netherlandish candlesticks, the period that they were made, and what part of the Burgundian Netherlands they likely yield from. What might initially appear to be a complex endeavor, is actually relatively easy with a little practice and research.

First, let’s start with the candlestick base. Through the years, Burgundian Netherlandish Socketed Candlesticks, distinguished by their base, evolved into seven major forms – Tripod-base (±1350 to ±1425), Funnel-base (±1425 to ±1500), Squat-base (±1475 to ±1525), Flat-base (±1475 to ±1525), Capstan (±1525 to ± 1650), Mid-drip (Heemskerk) (±1525 to ± 1725), and Wasted-base (±1550 to ±1650). “±” indicates an approximately 25 year spread. There are numerous subsets within these forms, and each form can be further distinguished by other features typical of their respective form, which we’ll address hereafter.

We are fortunate in that great Flemish and Dutch painters included in their art, candlesticks of the period.  This enables us to date these examples based on what appears in the paintings.  Though this imperfect estimate can only give us an approximate date, examples could in fact be older then when the painting was completed, but we know with assurance that they are from at least that date, or perhaps even earlier. 

When dating Tri-pod examples, it is a bit tricker since they generally predate the Flemish Primitives, and thus far, no examples have been found in illuminated manuscripts.  None the less, we can use our knowledge and subjection to loosely estimate a date of manufacturer, base on pricket examples which are similar, and can be found in painting and in illuminated manuscripts.