1400 – 1500

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.

Robert Campin – Merode Altarpiece – Circa 1430
Metropolitan Musuem of Art – Cloisters
Hover Mouse Over Picture of Candlestick
Jan van Eyck – Ghent Alterpiece – 1425-1432
Saint Bavo’s Cathedral
Hover Mouse Over Picture of Candlestick
Jan van Eyck – Lucca Madonna – Circa 1436
Stadel Museum
Hover Mouse Over Picture of Candlestick
After Jan van Eyck – Ince Hall Madonna – Circa 1480
National Gallery of Victoria – Australia
Hover Mouse Over Picture of Candlestick