1500 – 1600

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.

Joos van Cleve – St. Jerome in his Study – 1521
Fogg Museum
Hover Mouse Over Picture of Candlestick
M. van Reymerswaele - Moneychanger and His Wife - 1539

Museo del Prado, Madrid

Hover Mouse Over Picture of Candlestick
Frei Carlos - St. Anthony and the Child Jesus - 1520

 National Museum of Ancient Art, Lisbon

Hover Mouse Over Picture of Candlestick