Pair of cloisonné candlesticks

Pair of cloisonné candlesticks

The surfaces of these candlesticks resemble miniature stained glass windows. Chinese artisans perfected the art of cloisonné over centuries. Each different color on the candlestick is a piece of enameled glass, separated by bronze or copper wires, and then adhered to a metal base. Because of their vibrant forms and the skill necessary to create them, objects like these were considered to be luxurious and were placed prominently on display in a home. Later European and American collectors also valued Chinese cloisonné decorative arts for similar reasons. 

Doris purchased this pair in 1975.