A wonderful matching pair of 19th century alter candlesticks or prickets from a French chapel.
 
Made of gilded metal, they stand tall and straight on their three ornate legs with a cross in the centre between each leg. The shafts of the candlesticks have a Maltese cross design along the length. 
 
The candle spikes can be removed to use with a church candle and they look fabulous on a diner table or either side of a fireplace.
 
Over the decades of use, some patches of verdigris have developed, which of course I have left in place. Some of the gilding has naturally rubbed away, one candlestick is more patinated than the other with areas of oxidisation among the gilding, with one side more gilded than the other, this displays the authentic aging caused by the passage of time.
 
The candlesticks are 15.5" (40cm) plus the spikes if used.