Antique Victorian Sterling Silver Parcel Gilt Go-to-bed Candlestick (1845)

An exceptional, fine and impressive, antique Victorian English sterling silver parcel gilt Go-To-Bed candlestick; an addition to our silver candlestick / candelabra collection This exceptional antique Victorian sterling silver Go-To-Bed candle holder* has been realistically modelled in the form of a foot. The anatomical silver foot is attired with a gilt sandal, accented with chased matte textured ornamentation reflecting the details of the fabric covering. The innermost toe (big toe/hallux) is subtly raised and supports a swept tapering column enveloped with leaf decoration. The column is surmounted with a waisted cylindrical capital. The ankle of this exceptional Go-To-Bed comprises a rounded match receiver. This antique sterling silver candlestick and match receptacle is fitted with an impressive tied rope twist decorated handpiece. The impressive and rare example of Victorian silverware incorporates a match striker to the sole of the shoe. The underside of the heel of this exceptional chamberstick bears the retailer's and maker's mark for the renowned silversmiths Elkington & Co, in addition to the 'lozenge mark' which certifies the patent of this piece on 21st August 1844 with the UK Patent Office. This exceptional antique silver Go-To-Bed candlestick is the finest of its type you could hope to acquire. Note: * A Go-To-Bed candlestick would be used during the process of getting into bed; including changing into bed clothes, turning down blankets and placing a bed stool. Within this period furnishings and interior design incorporates a large amount of linen, which is highly flammable, and the candleholder would be placed on the opposing side of the room to prevent an incident. As a solution, prior to snuffing the candle, a match would be lit and this would provide enough light to climb the stairs and close the bed curtains before burning out. Dimensions Length 13.9cm/5.5" Width 3.6cm/1.4" Height 5cm/2" Weight 3 troy ounces/93.2g