candle-holder;
candlestick;
figure
- Museum number
- 1926,1011.1.CR
- Description
-
Figural candlestick of an actor or masquerader, known as the 'Ranelagh Dancer'; porcelain; gallant in sixteenth-century costume with breaches, standing in front of a bocage; candlestick nozzle and rococo base picked out in green, crimson and gold.
- Production date
- 1765-1770
- Dimensions
-
Height: 10.50 inches
- Curator's comments
- The figure on this candle-holder and its pair (1926,1011.2) are identified as 'Ranelagh Dancers', see Bradshaw (E17). The models in theatrical or carnival attire were introduced between 1759 and 1769. There are slightly earlier models, c1760-65, where the male figure holds a letter (missing here) inscribed 'Dominae Lucretiae', and wears feathers in his cap (Victoria and Albert Museum, 414:176/&A-1885). The V&A model has a portrait painted on the medallion worn by the female dancer. The medallions worn on a ribbon are thought to resemble the oval metal admission tickets to Ranelagh (see MG.664 in coins and medals).
- Location
- Not on display
- Acquisition date
- 1926
- Department
- Britain, Europe and Prehistory
- Registration number
- 1926,1011.1.CR