American Renaissance: Including An Important Private Collection of Greene & Greene

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Lot 357
  • 357

Robert R. Jarvie

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Description

  • Robert R. Jarvie
  • ''Omicron'' Candlestick
  • with incised signature
  • brass

Literature

Sheila Schwartz, ed., From Architecture to Object: Masterworks of the American Arts & Crafts Movement, New York, 1989, p. 100
Thomas K. Maher, The Jarvie Shop:  The Candlesticks and Metalwork of Robert R. Jarvie, Philmont, NY, 1997, pp. 44 and 73

Catalogue Note

Although he also produced lanterns, bowls, and other metalwork, Robert Jarvie became known as ‘’The Candlestick Maker.’’  In addition to selling his designs through his catalogues, which claimed to offer ‘’for sale only those things which are genuine, beautiful and useful’’ (as reprinted in Maher, p. 29), Jarvie retailed some of his work through the Kalo Shops in 1903-1905.  The name of that shop (Greek word for beautiful) may have inspired him to use Greek names for his series of candlesticks, one of which is offered here. 

The ‘’Omicrom’’ candlestick, developed from the more elaborate four-light ‘’Kappa’’ candelabrum, was available in two- or three-light versions, the latter being among the most expensive in the alphabet series.  With its sinuous curves, this candlestick is a magnificent example of the American Art Nouveau aesthetic.

A December 1905 advertisement in House Beautiful proclaimed that ‘’The Jarvie Candlesticks are especially appropriate for Wedding and Holiday Gifts.’’