West Pennine Antiques

Important and Rare Carved Alabaster Candle Stand Depicting Evolution. 

Designed by Philip Thicknesse and executed by Frank Norbury circa 1890.
Comprising five sections, the plinth base section supporting a second section carved in relief with primitive vegetation and sea-dwelling life forms such as ammonites and nautilus, supporting a dado section with pictorial panels to three sides depicting extinct vertebrates including marine reptiles and fish, the upper stage of the dado with land creatures such as a Woolly Mammoth, Pterodactyl, a giant Toad, and Iguanadons, supporting the plain shaft with carved acanthus leaves, the upper section carved with three figural groups of man and woman supporting the candle dish.

Provenance: Removed from the Chapel of Blessed Virgin Mary, Liverpool.  We hold a copy of the original dedication obtained from the church.

This unique column was installed as a gift to the church in the late 19th century. Designed by Philip C Thicknesse, a renowned ecclesiastical architect working mostly in the northern counties, in particularly Liverpool with his business partner William Willink. The firm carried out other works in the city including the the Cunard Building and Liners, Zoology building at Liverpool University, and Parr's Bank, Castle St to name a few.

The unusual depiction of this column - the story of evolution - is perhaps considered a conflict of beliefs, especially in the late 19th century, when the church officially opposed Darwin's theory. However in the 'Dedication of the Font and Baptistery' given in 1900 by the church chaplain, the 'candlestick' is described as "a masterpiece... It is a version of Creation revised up to date. It is an overture to Science to come and make her home with us. It proclaims the reconciliation between research and religion. They have divorced too long." The symbolism embodied in the candlestick is plain to see. Man, the pinnacle of evolution and of God's creation. The plain shaft, symbolic of the extent of unknown knowledge that still separates humans from the rest of the animal kingdoms in the fossil record.  

Measurements: 292cm high (approx).

Condition report: Original condition.  A few minor chips but nothing which detracts.

This rare and important antique candlestick would be ideal for an interior design project.  A truly spectacular one-off.   

To enquire please call our showroom on 01282 411115 or email paul@westpennineantiques.com

Price £P.O.A.

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West Pennine Antiques deal in quality antique furniture & collectibles from our large antiques wholesale warehouse in Lancashire. Visitors welcome 7 days a week. Come and view our vintage antique collectibles, antique furniture, used chesterfield suites, sofas, bookcases, antique tables, chairs, desks and art.