Incredibly rare pair miniature church candlesticks with turned bodies, broad drip-pans edged with gadrooning and topped by non-removable slightly flared candle cups. Bases are octagonal with 3 sides being larger and more prominent with exquisite decoration that differs on each of the three widest sides. One side features a floral-type center with foliate designs filling in. The next side features a center heart with leaf tendril moving across the heart's center. Above the heart is an indication of flame and surrounding the heart is a circle within a circle design. The third side has a center cross inside a circle and is completed by stars inside and between cross-hatching. The base of each side bears a roped edge and the sticks sit on three upturned feet. There are no touchmarks. The candle cups are a bit out of round and there is a very early, well-done repair under the base of one drip pan (where the drip pan attaches to the burned body). Great medium grey patina. 5 3/4" tall. Drip pans have 2" diameter and the bases are 2 1/2" at the widest. These were likely used to burn incense during Mass. A great, beautifully made pair or rare 17th century candlesticks.  See the bottom group photo for a bit of size perspective.  Circa 1680.  Probably Dutch.

(#4508)     $775/pair