Stamped by the major Arts and Crafts figure W.A.S. Benson, the 121/2in (32cm) long pieces were in such fine condition that some bidders asked auctioneer Guy Schooling whether they had been replated.
They were estimated at £600-800 which would have been fairly punchy for most plated pieces but way too conservative for Benson’s work and they went to a London dealer specialising in Arts and Crafts work at £2200.
The heavy counterweights in the form of tulip heads suggested to Mr Schooling that these were wall-mounted pieces and it was a good day for such objects. A pair of 2ft 7in (74cm) Italian wall sconces with faceted drops, gilt, metal mounts and three branches with candle light fittings were of no great age but of sufficiently stylish looks to bring £1750. These latter sconces were part of an 18-lot section devoted to lighting pieces. Other prices included a double-estimate £500 on a Victorian white glass and brass table lamp with label Palmer & Co. Patent; £270 on a 191/2in (50cm) Art Deco spelter table lamp modelled as a female nude with arms outstretched and £220 on a 141/2in (37cm) diameter early 20th century gilt metal and glass drop chandelier.
Arts and Crafts lighten silver woes
THE sad plight of silver is as well known as the boom in all Arts and Crafts pieces – what happens when the two come together was the question at Sworders’ sale when this pair of plated candlesticks, right, were offered.
