Accession Number

2009.017.001.002

Description

One of a pair of etched and engraved clear crystal candlestick holders, the broad base supporting a tapered square column etched and engraved in a flowing floral and foliate pattern, the edges of the column cut in a saw-tooth manner, the column's top broadening to form a square capital with an opening it its top for a candle.

Narrative

The history of use of these candlesticks by members of Victoria's Dunsmuir and Macdonald families make them an important part of Craigdarroch's Primary Collection. The donor’s mother and two sisters previously gave The Castle Society several objects original to Armadale that are now in the Castle’s museum collection. Examples include the curtains and tiebacks in the smoking room (983.635) and a fabric and gold textile wall hanging (983.826).

History of Use

This pair of circa 1890 glass candlesticks were previously owned by the donor’s mother, Elizabeth Mary Katherine Macdonald (b. May 27, 1911, d. January 5, 1979) of Victoria, B.C. She was the first daughter of Joan Olive Bryden and Alastair Douglas Macdonald and a great-granddaughter of Robert and Joan Dunsmuir. Her father’s parents owned an opulent house named Armadale situated in what is known as the James Bay neighborhood of Victoria, BC. (see: 2009.019.015 . This pair of candlesticks might have once been used in Armadale. Less likely, but still possible, is that they were once in Craigdarroch. They were used by Joan Olive Bryden and Alastair Douglas Macdonald at their North Saanich farm named Duntulm. 

Date

circa 1895

Dimensions

25 x 11.5 cm

Material

Glass, crystal

Technique

Etched; Engraved; Handmade