Pair of Large Japanese Black-Lacquer Shokudai Candle Stands

Japan, Meiji period, late 19th century.

A pair of large Japanese shokudai candle stands in black-lacquered wood, accompanied by removable hexagonal shades made of lacquered wood and paper.

Each candle stand rests on a broad domed circular base. A tall, slender and undecorated shaft rises from its centre. The only element articulating the lower structure is a circular metal mount at the base of the shaft.

The upper section is fitted with a substantial metal candle cup bearing the only ornamentation on the piece. It is engraved with scrolling foliage and plant motifs around the central spike intended to hold the candle.

The hexagonal shades consist of black-lacquered wooden frames set with cream paper panels. They fit onto the candle cups and are entirely removable. The pair can therefore be displayed either with the shades or as tall candle stands revealing the engraved cups.

Wear and age-related marks to the lacquer, metal and paper, consistent with the age of the pair.

Dimensions

Candle stands without shades and excluding the spikes: height 56 cm; base diameter 26 cm.
Hexagonal shades: height 32 cm; width 29 cm; depth 25 cm.
Overall height with shades: 87 cm.

Materials: black-lacquered wood, paper and metal.