A Charles II oak candlestand, circa 1680

The present lot relates to examples which are often in pairs and sometimes ensuite with a table (see a Japanned example in the collection of the V&A, London, W.74B-1981). It is a charming vernacular example of these more 'urban' types, which were often inlaid or japanned, it still cleverly demonstrates the skill of the wood turner though. Victor Chinnery, Oak Furniture, The British Tradition, Woodbridge, 2016, p. 252, fig. 3:191), illustrates a similar stand which features the same turning but without the shaped legs seen on that here. Chinnery also discusses function (op. cit. p. 254) and cites an inventory from 1649 by Randle Holme which reads as follows, '1649...two wooden painted framed to set candlesticks upon... ...a little round table, set upon a pillar, or poste, which in foote branches itself out into three or foure feet or toes for its fast and steddy standing...it is used for to set a bason on while washing, or a candle to read by...'.